Manufactured in the 1860s with this example having been U.S. martially inspected. Ball & Williams received a U.S. contract for 5,000 carbines in January 1864 but only delivered 1,500. Ball & Williams forfeited the U.S. contract due to receiving higher prices from a Kentucky contract. These U.S. contract pieces, such as this example, have "MM" inspector marks. The frame has the "MM" inspector mark and "BALL & WILLIAMS/Worcester, Mass./MERWIN & BRAY, AGT'S/NEW YORK" on the left side and "BALLARD'S PATENT/NOV. 5, 1861" on the right side. Matching numbers appear on the frame and barrel at the breech with the breech block having the assembly number "778." Pinched blade front sight and two leaf rear sight. Smooth forearm and straight grip stock with sling swivels and carbine buttplate. The left side of the buttstock is stamped with a clear script "MM" cartouche.

Fine. The carbine retains 30% of the original blue finish with a crisp mottled brown patina remaining on the balance. Rust is present on the buttplate. The wood is very fine with some minor pressure dents. The cartouche is crisp. Mechanically fine.