FINE NORFOLK CONTRACT .58 CALIBER MODEL 1861 MUSKET

$2,750.00 SOLD

Quantity Available: None

Item Code: 218-472

This fine original, 1862 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 mottling is scattered about the barrel. Rifled bore is very good with only some light dust and dirt. Musket retains its fine, original stock, iron nipple and bolster screw, 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 good condition with light scratches and dings consistent with use and age. Left flat exhibits the small oval stamp that reads “JAS. D. MOWERY, NORWICH, CONN.” This same area bears two thin government cartouche marks. One is partially obscured by scuffing. Flat edges are lightly smoothed over.

The Mowery mark on the stock is a little confusing. Mowery made his own rifles which bore his name on the lockplate. His stamp has also been found on stocks bearing the Norwich company markings.

Lockplate is strongly stamped with “U.S. / NORFOLK” under the bolster. Strong date “1862” stamped behind the hammer with a light stamp of a spreadwinged eagle motif in front of the hammer. Barrel breech area strongly stamped “1862 on the top flat. Government proof marks “V / P / eagle head” on the left facet are clear but thin on one edge. 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 / bayonet lug on muzzle. Buttplate 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.

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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