Manufactured from 1881 to 1891 in 32-40 and 38-55 caliber. This is an early No. 6 rifle with a later barrel and forearm. The replacement barrel is marked under the replacement forearm "20319" and "38-55" on the top flat. The receiver is marked on the left side "J.M. MARLIN NEW-HAVEN CONN, U.S.A. / BALLARD'S PATENT. NOV.5, 1861" This rifle has standard features which include a vernier rear peep sight and spirit level front sight with a loop and spur lever and double set triggers. Highly figured Schuetzen styled high comb stock with oval cheekpiece, checkered at the wrist and forearm, Ballard #6 style buttplate with nickel finish and a horn Schnabel forend tip. The forearm, as noted, is from a later rifle and is numbered 19772 on the end. The action features the standard floral scroll engraving on both sides and a running leaf border engraving across the top of the frame. The consignor notes (state) that this was obtained in is Evanston Ill. In 1957.

Partially refinished. The barrel retains about 75% of its faded original blue with thinning on the bottom side of the barrel and some high edge wear on the octagon portion with very light scattered brown spotting overall. Steady rest marks on the round portion of the barrel. The action shows approximately 75% refurbished case color, the lever showing some faded case color on the sides and a silver gray for the balance. The buttplate shows about 40% of the nickel plating the balance showing patinated brass. The stocks show about 90% of its original finish with thinning at the cheekpiece and top of the comb and minor handling marks. The action needs work, the hammer won't stay at full cock. An attractive refurbished No. 6 that needs a little work.