This fine, original, 1863-dated M1861 .58 caliber “Norfolk Contract” percussion rifle-musket is in excellent, complete condition overall. This rifled musket was a product of the Welch, Brown and Company of Norfolk, Connecticut, circa 1862-63, which produced some 18,000 longarms under U.S. government contract.

The single-shot muzzleloader retains its handsome appearance. All gun metal appears to have been cleaned lightly at one time. Barrel surface exhibits a pleasing light gray sheen overall. Light pinprick rusting is scattered about the barrel. Rifled bore is absolutely mint. Musket retains its fine, original stock, iron nipple and bolster screw, “dog ear” shaped hammer, swell-shaped ramrod, all barrel bands and sling swivels. Breech area near the nipple and bolster area reflects very light pitting, almost negligible.

Black walnut stock is in excellent, light cleaned condition. Left flat exhibits the small stamp “W B Co (in crescent form) / NORFOLK”. One thin government cartouche visible on flat. Flat edges are lightly smoothed over. Few light dings are visible on stock overall. Lockplate is strongly stamped with “U.S. / NORFOLK” under the bolster. Strong date “1863” stamped behind the hammer with a light stamp of a spreadwinged eagle motif is in front of the hammer. Barrel breech area strongly stamped “1863 on the top flat. Government proof marks “V / P / eagle head” on the left facet are clear and sharp. Also visible is a sub-inspector mark “H” on left side bottom barrel facet. Retains original two-blade rear sight and the standard front sight / bayo lug on muzzle tip. Butt plate marked with “U.S.”. Mechanics are crisp and strong. Musket retains its original tulip-head, swelled shank, steel ramrod with its threaded tip. A very fine, original, Norfolk-marked rifled contract musket.  [ra]

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