Looking for any info on muzzeloader

[Kylev26]

Hello,

I just got my first muzzeloader and I am not familiar with them at all. I basically traded a case of 5.56 ammo for this rifle. I am looking for any information about the history of the rifle and to see if everything appears to be original. Also curious of the value of the rifle. The stock seems shorter then other Springfields that I have seen online. The rifle is stamped Springfield 1862. The butt stock plate is stamped US. The stock is stamped with an E with some other letter with a circle around it. The barrel looks to be stamped with a V but i cant makeout anyother letters. I will post some photos with this post. Thanks for all the help!

 

[deerstalkert]

looks like a sweet 1862 springfield to me. should be .58 cal.
don't know what the .556 ammo was worth but i'd make that deal all day long.
looks as if it has been shortened a smidge.

 

[JamesT]

U.S. Model 1861 rifled musket. 1862 is the year of mfg. Has been shortened some point in its life. If you are happy with your trade then enjoy it. It certainly has some history to it.
James

 

[hawkeye2]

The barrel would have been 40" long and looks like it may still be. The forearm has been shortened and the top band and nose cap are missing along with the ramrod. It would be an easy project to restore it to its original configuration and even using original parts. The stamp opposite the lock is ESA for inspector Erskine S. Allen. Your piece was manufactured at Springfield Armory rather than being a contract piece. The markings on the barrel would be (reading vertically) a V above a P over an eagle's head.

 

[steved]

Adding onto hawkeye2's comments, let us know the barrel length and the bore condition. If the barrel hasn't been cut and the bore is still rifled (not bored smooth) the value will be higher; in such case around $800 or so in my opinion. As he noted, the musket could be restored to its original configuration if the barrel isn't cut.