The Model 1861 3-Inch Ordnance Rifles were among the best and most widely used field artillery pieces of the Civil War and continued to be used into the late 19th century Indian Wars. They were designed by John Griffen, the superintendent of the Phoenix Iron Co. of Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, who created a new technique that produced stronger and lighter artillery by using multiple layers of wrought iron strips welded together and using a rolling press. Only one reportedly failed in use, and it had been double charged. A one-pound charge can fire a 9.5 lbs. solid projectile 1,830 yards. They were very accurate and lighter than some of the comparable rifled artillery of the period such as the Parrott rifles. This example is marked "J.M.W. No 456 PICo. 1862/816 lbs" on the muzzle (inspected by James Madison Whittemore, no. 456, manufactured by Phoenix Iron Co. in 1862, and 816 pound weight). "US" is marked on top over the trunnions. It is mounted on an accurate reproduction Historical Ordnance Works carriage with implements.

Very fine overall as professionally restored by Historical Ordnance Works. The tube has an even coat of black paint with some mild pitting showing underneath as well as the original lathe turning/machining marks. The rifling is good with some pitting. The carriage has mild age and storage wear.