This original Model 1861 dated 1864 is a .58 caliber “Trenton Contract” percussion rifle-musket with its original US Model 1855 angular bayonet. This weapon is a complete specimen in very good condition. A product of the Trenton Locomotive and Machine Company of Trenton, New Jersey, circa 1863-64, it was one of some 11,500 contract rifled-muskets the firm produced for the war.

This attic-find musket and bayonet appear never to have been cleaned or monkeyed with. Retains its original stock, C-shaped hammer, nipple, bolster screw, two-leaf rear sight, swell-shaped ramrod, three barrel bands, springs, sling swivels , triggerguard and butt plate. All three bands show the proper stamping “U” on the musket’s right side. The 40” long, round barrel has a finely browned surface and exhibits light to moderate pitting at the breech. Clear date stamp “1864” visible on top flat of breech where the brown patina was lightly rubbed off. Left barrel flat also has “V. P.” over an eaglehead and “N.J.”

All gunmetal, including the original ramrod, wear a pleasing, smooth plum / grayish brown patina. Upper two inches of the barrel muzzle is bright from the bayonet socket resting at the tip. Lock plate is stamped “U S. / TRENTON” in front of the hammer and “1864” stamped behind hammer. The letter “T” is light. There is a spreadwinged eagle motif stamped on plate between hammer and bolster. Patina on lockplate is lighter compared to the rest of the weapon. Steel butt tang plate strongly stamped with “U S”. Musket also exhibits sub-inspector marks on various components. Barrel has the original two-leaf rear sight (as mentioned above) and small blade front sight. All barrel bands present. Middle band secures one sling swivel while the triggerguard has the 2nd swivel. Both swivels move freely.

The three land & groove rifling is strong and bright rating the bore near excellent. All frame screws are in very good condition with only the bolster screw showing any signs of buggering. Mechanics strong and crisp.

Black walnut stock is in good, untouched condition. It has some minor dings, dents and surface scratches consistent with age and use. Stock flat shows rounded edge contours from use but also retains its single cartouche of “N.J.” in an oval.

Weapon retains its swelled shank steel ramrod with its tulip-head and threaded tip in very good condition.

The matching M1855 angular socket bayonet is in excellent attic condition and fits nicely on the barrel muzzle. Plumb brown in color the bayonet is not cut or shortened and has a strong “US” stamping on the flat. Locking band on socket works fine.

This M1861 ‘Trenton’ contract rifle-musket / bayonet looks to be right out of the attic.

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