Colt 1864 Percussion Musket?

Andrew hall

Experts, here is another garage relic. Lockplate says "1864" behind the hammer. In front of the hammer, it says "U.S. Colt's Pt ? A Mfg Co. Hartford Ct." I can find no other markings, serial number cartouches or helpful information. Dull finish, rod is missing, as is the band that once held the barrel and stock together toward the front of the gun. Smooth trigger; no place to hang a sling.

Your thoughts, clues and suggestions for further research?

rufe-snow

It's been cut down/sporterized. This was quite commonly done to the muzzle loading rifle/muskets after the end of the Civil War, as they were obsolete as military firearms. They were generally bored out and converted to utility shotguns.

Because of this, your musket has little value other then as decorator to hang over the fireplace. My 2?.

Spider7115

You could probably get a decent amount of money for the parts. If the lock is complete, it alone would bring $200-$300. The trigger, guard and butt plate (if still military) are good parts, too. I don't know if the barrel's been cut because I can't see the end of it but I would list the whole thing as a "parts gun". I'm sure there's someone looking to restore their Special Model 1861 Colt musket.

captkirk3@dslextreme.com

Its a Model 1861, 58 Caliber, Military Contract Musket made by Colt...
Most likely a Bannerman Cut Down Surplus Musket....Bannerman used to purchase these old Muskets and cut them down and Bore the rifling out to make them into Single Shot percussion shotguns and sold them for about $2.50 by Mail Order and they were also sold thru Hardware Stores by the 1000's...