Weapon is a single shot muzzle loading .58 caliber with metal surfaces that are black throughout except for the muzzle which is bright with a doglegged shadow of black. This was caused by a bayonet being fixed to the musket for years while it aged. The bayonet is now gone. Though the barrel is dark it looks to be free of pitting except for the breech which shows heavy pitting from use. Front sight is the usual blade sight. The rear sight is present with both flip-up leaves but these are frozen in the down position. The left flat of the barrel has good proof marks of “VP” and eagle head however the barrel date is gone. Bore has good rifling but it is dark and dirty throughout.

The lock plate and hammer match 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 “1862.” Bolster screw is good but the hammer screw looks to be a period replacement. Action works properly. Original nipple is present and in good condition.

The walnut stock is in good condition with no cracks and few dings and dents. The wood between the first two bands appears a bit lighter than the rest of the stock and looks as if someone started to clean the wood but then stopped.  The flat opposite the lock has two faint cartouche marks. There is some “burn out” behind the nipple with a deep 1.00-inch chip that is very old and does not really hurt the item.

Steel tulip head ramrod with swelled shank is original and full length with threaded tip. All barrel bands and springs are original. The bands bear the horizontal “U” stamp and match the other metal surfaces perfectly. Both sling swivels are present however the lower one is frozen. Buttplate and trigger guard match in patina. Buttplate has some light surface pitting and a good “US” on the tang.  [ad]

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