This Marlin-Ballard has been very nicely custom engraved with floral scroll designs on the sides and top of the receiver. A quarter rib has been added to the breech end of the barrel and fitted with scope rings. The scope rings, top of the quarter rib and ahead of the rib have been engraved with the same design. There are two gold inlaid bands around the muzzle and breech ends of the barrel. The left side of the receiver is marked "MARLIN FIRE ARMS CO NEW HAVEN CT U.S.A. / PATENTED FEBRUARY, 9, 1875. / BALLARD'S PATENT. NOV. 5, 1861." The serial number is marked on the bottom of the receiver and mis-matched number on the bottom barrel flat under the forearm. Blade front sight with a brass bead and mid-range tang mounted peep sight. Blue barrel, with casehardened remaining parts. Mounted with extra fancy checkered walnut Schnabel forearm and straight grip stock with crescent buttplate engraved with the same floral scroll design with a scallop border. Complete with an extra 28 inch octagon barrel, marked "25-20W.C.F." on the upper left rear flat and has a 3 1/4 inch wedge of floral scroll engraving on the breech end top flat, with a matte background and scallop border, and double thin gold inlaid bands around the muzzle and breech end. It is fitted with a beaded blade front and adjustable buck horn rear sights.

Custom embellished, near mint overall. The markings are clear and the engraving is sharp. The action is excellent. The extra barrel is excellent with 99% original blue finish showing some overall scattered minor scratches and scuffs. The engraving remains sharp. An exceptionally well done Marlin-Ballard rifle.