This original, 1863-dated M1861 .58 caliber “Trenton Contract” percussion rifle-musket is in very good, complete 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. This 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 handsome appearance with all gun metal that 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. Sharp, rifled bore has a section that is rust pitted some 12 to 15 inches from the muzzle. Would clean to semi bright or so. 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.

Butt plate marked with “U.S.” Some light dings, nicks are dents are visible on the stock. No government cartouche visible. Lockplate is strongly stamped with “U.S. / TRENTON” under the bolster and “1863” stamped behind the hammer. All stampings including the eagle motif are sharp and detailed. Barrel breech area stamped “1864” on the top flat; numerals ‘64’ very light. Barrel flat also depicts two larger numbers “1 7.” Government proof marks “V / P / eagle head” on the left facet are visible but light. Stock at the nipple area shows minor chipping. 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 without its threaded tip. Musket also retains its original leather shoulder sling attached. An original and pleasing “NJ” marked Trenton contract rifled musket.

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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