Here is an original, 1864-dated M1861 .58 caliber “Trenton Contract” percussion rifle-musket in very good condition overall. The rifled musket was a product of the Trenton Locomotive and Machine Company of Trenton, New Jersey, circa 1863-64 and was sold to the State of New Jersey under contract. The firm also had contracts with the U.S. government as well and produced some 11,500 weapons for the army.

The single-shot muzzleloader retains a pleasing appearance and all gun metal appears to have been cleaned lightly at one time. Barrel that exhibits a pleasing light gray sheen overall. Very scant pinprick rusting is scattered about the weapon. Bore is sharp with a semi-bright color. Would clean to bright. Musket retains its 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 very good condition overall but it does appears to have been lightly cleaned. Stock exhibits the ½” high letter “F” hand carved into upper wrist area and one at the stock heel area. Butt plate marked with “U.S.” and also shows a stamped letter “F.” Some light dings and nicks are visible on the stock, as is the government cartouche on the flat opposite the hammer. Lockplate is stamped with “U.S. / TRENTON” under the bolster and “1864” stamped behind the hammer. Stampings are light from wear and cleaning. Plate is also stamped with the eagle motif which shows some wear. Barrel breech area stamped “1864” on the top flat with sharp government proof marks “V / P / eagle head” on the left facet. Side facet of the barrel is strongly stamped with letters “N.J.” Mechanics are strong. This musket retains its original tulip-head, swelled shank, steel ramrod with its threaded tip.

If one seeks an original and pleasing Civil War longarm, at a great price, this “NJ” marked Trenton contract rifled musket fits the bill.

DISCLAIMER: All firearms are sold as collector's items only - we do not accept responsibility as to the shooting safety or reliability of any antique firearm. All firearms are described as accurately as possible, given the restraints of a catalog listing length. We want satisfied customers & often "under" describe the weapons. Any city or state regulations regarding owning antique firearms are the responsibility of the purchaser. All firearms are "mechanically perfect" unless noted, but again, are NOT warranted as safe to fire!

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