This original .58 caliber, percussion rifle musket is a fine Model 1861 contract percussion musket produced by the Parker, Snow Company of Meriden, Connecticut. The musket has a 40” barrel mated to a black walnut stock. Lockplate is stamped with a large spread-winged eagle over “U.S.” and marked “PARKERS’ SNOW & CO. / MERIDEN, CONN” in front of the hammer. The date of “1864” is stamped back of the hammer. This marking is believed to be the product of the James Mulholland contract of 1861 of which only 5,500 such muskets were delivered to the government and would represent the first venture in firearms manufacturing by Charles Parker of Meriden. All gunmetal on this longarm was cleaned some time ago, but has begun to darken up again. Musket is complete; three original barrel bands, hammer, lockplate, rear / front sight, both swivels and its swelled shank ramrod. One lockplate screw has broken and head portion is missing, otherwise, screw heads are good and not buggered up. Buttplate is stamped “US”. Bore is clean and bright with good rifling.

Like the metal parts of the gun, the stock has been lightly cleaned. There are the usual dings and scrapes from age and normal use. Visible on the flat opposite the hammer are two government inspector’s cartouches and a 9^th Corps insignia. Overall, the stock is in very good condition.

A very nice musket. [jet]

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