This is an outstanding example of a Civil War era Colt Model 1861 Special rifle-musket. An estimated 100,000 in total of these Colt rifle-muskets were manufactured throughout the Civil War under contract with the Union and state governments. This model is based on the Enfield Pattern 1853 and has many features that were subsequently incorporated into the Springfield Model 1863 rifle-musket. This example has standard markings and features, with an "1863" dated lock and barrel, "M.N.M" inspection initials on the left barrel flat at the breech, boxed script "MH" (Michael Hayes) and "JT" (John Taylor or Jerome Towne) inspection cartouches on the left stock flat. The barrel is fitted with a blued rear sight with two folding leaves graduated to 500 yards.

Exceptionally fine. The musket appears mostly original with bright polish and retains sharp markings in the metal. It displays most of the "national armory bright" finish with some tarnish and scattered light freckling from age with only scattered surface scratches and light storage wear. The rear sight retains most of the original blue finish. The stock is excellent with attractive original raised grain and defined edges, a few minor dents, and exceptionally crisp cartouches. Mechanically excellent. Absent front sight blade. This is an attractive original, exceptional example of an important Civil War rifle musket and a key Colt longarm.