Manufactured in 1870 as a third model with the serial number stamped in block numbers behind the trigger. The lower tang also has a Louisiana State Militia marking, "LSM." The musket has a blade front sight/bayonet lug, ladder rear sight, original rimfire bolt, sling swivels, and trapdoor brass buttplate (cleaning rod not included). The top of the barrel is stamped with the two-line Winchester address/King's patent dates marking. The history of "LSM" marked 1866 muskets is summarized in the accompanying article by Neill Carpenter published in the April 1963 issue of "The Gun Report". Reorganized during Reconstruction, the LSM was mostly comprised of black troops under the leadership of white officers and armed with Enfield rifles and Winchester Model 1866 muskets such as this one. The elections of 1872 threw the Louisiana state government into disarray as both gubernatorial candidates, Democrat John McEnery and Republican William Pitt Kellogg, declared victory. The two governments operated separately until the dispute reached a climax on September 14, 1874, with the Battle of Liberty Place, or Battle of Canal Street, an attempted insurrection by McEnery supporters against the Reconstruction era Louisiana state government which was supported by the LSM. The McEnery faction occupied the State House for three days, ending when President Grant threatened to send federal troops to restore order. Approximately 300 Model 1866 muskets were captured. Over the years, very few LSM Model 1866 muskets have surfaced.

Very good, retaining traces of original blue finish in the protected areas, otherwise a smooth dark brown patina. Some original nitre blue remains on the loading gate. The brass has an attractive appearance. The wood is also very good with a faint name hand marked on the buttstock (right side) and a number of dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent. A very scarce Reconstruction era Louisiana State Militia Model 1866 musket that is often missing from the most advanced Winchester collections. This is a must have for the Winchester or Americana collector!