US M1861 Special Contract Rifled Musket by L.G & Y.

Description

The firm of Lamson, Goodnow & Yale of Windsor, VT and Shelburn Falls, MA made
approximately 50,000 Special Model 1861 Contract rifled muskets between 1862 and
1864. Each year features a distinctly different lock plate marking. This example dated
1862 with the lock plate stamped “(Eagle) L.G & Y./U.S. WINDSOR-VT” in block letters.
There is also a faint eagle stamped on the bolster and the date “1862″ horizontally behind
the hammer. Single-shot muzzle-loading 40″ round barrel of .58 caliber secured by three
barrel bands to the walnut full stock; the bands secured by screws as opposed to springs
on the regular M1861. Breech stamped with date “1862″ on the top flat and view and proof
marks. Two-position folding rear sight and fixed front blade sight. The hammer also
distinctly different from that on the M1861. Iron mounts with sling swivels on forward end
of the trigger guard and on the middle band. This example with original brown leather sling
and bayonet. “US” stamped on butt plate tang. The metal parts were originally finished
bright, but the iron mounts now have a dark patina; the barrel mostly smooth with minor
pitting at the breech and around the nipple. The walnut full stock with scattered scratches
and minor dings, having a later coat of varnish. Original ramrod with tulip-shaped tip.
Mechanically excellent. Overall length 56″, without bayonet.