This is a very well preserved example of an 1861 dated Tower musket.
The manufacturing date along with the crown above VR can be clearly seen stamped on the lockplate.
The hammer is chequered on the top and decorated on the sides.
A series of Victorian proof mars, including the War Department stamp can be seen on the left hand side of the barrel.
The brass end of the stock is serial numbered “58”.
The piece half cocks, cocks and releases with a strong spring.
The bayonet is complete with it’s brass and leather scabbard. The locket of the scabbard is serial numbered “587”.
The blade of the bayonet is marked with foreign colonial marks, indicating that it served in the Far East. The original British inspectors mark it is barely visible.
~ Dimensions ~
The barrel is 39 inches (99 cm) and the overall length of the musket is 54 inches (134 cm).
The bayonet in its scabbard is 22 inches (56 cm) long.
~ Condition ~
The metalwork developed a nice patina and some minor pitting around the nipple (nothing serious though), its overall condition being very good.
The woodwork remains very good as well.
The bayonet is showing its age, but remains free of damage.
The scabbard is generally very good except for the tip section where the leather had been bent quite often and developed a split.
ref. GS920C1A9 / TFWHGEXX90EE23FGGC
