Weapon is a single shot muzzleloading .58 caliber with a bright barrel with heavy mottling and pitting at the breech. This are also shows signs of several scratches in the iron. Front sight is the usual blade sight. The rear sight is present with a single flip-up leaf. The left flat of the barrel has no proof marks visible and the barrel date is gone also. Barrel tang is pinched like it has been in a vice. Bore has good rifling of 8 lands and grooves but is dark and dirty throughout.

The lockplate and hammer have a semi-bright gray surface that matches the barrel well. There is a strongly stamped spread-winged eagle just forward of the hammer. Forward of this mark is “U.S.” over “SPRINGFIELD” Behind the hammer is a good date of “1861.” Bolster screw shows severe wear but hammer screw is very good. Action works properly. Original nipple is present but worn.

The walnut stock has a surface that is dark and shows signs of heavy use. There are the usual dings, dents and scratches but there is also a small gouge in the right cheek. This meas. approx. 0.75 x 0.50 an inch and could have been caused by a projectile of some kind. This same area has a carved initial “H” while the opposite side of the cheek bears the initials “J.R.T.” All lettering is done in period script. No cartouche marks are visible and there is some missing wood or “burn out” behind the nipple. There are no visible cracks.

Steel tulip head ramrod looks to be a period replacement. It has a straight shaft, which is not correct for this model. Shaft should have a swell, and is complete with the threaded tip. All barrel bands are original and bear the horizontal “U” stamp. All are secured to the stock via flat iron springs. Both sling swivels are present. Buttplate has a faint “US” on the tang.

There is little doubt that this weapon saw use in the Civil War.  [ad]

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