US Model 1861 Civil War Rifle Musket by Norfolk

This is a Model 1861 contract rifle manufactured by Welch, Brown and Co. of Norfolk Connecticut. The Norfolk is one of the scarcer contracts for this model with 18,000 made from 1862-1863. Standard .58 Caliber w/3 groove rifling, 40" barrel, and secured by 3 bands. Lockplate marked "U.S. Norfolk" with an Eagle and "1862" date. Barrel marked "VP" at breech. Rear sight w/2 leafs graduated for 300 and 500 yards. Buttplate is marked "US". Overall, Good condition. The metal has turned to a brown smooth except for some minor pitting. Nice lock mechanics. A good solid example of a lesser known Union Civil War contractor. I have 12 photos of this rifle and can email them upon request.