A total of around 14,495 Merrill carbines were manufactured by James H. Merrill of Baltimore and used during the Civil War. This example is the first type manufactured with a brass patch box and the early style markings of "J.J. MERRILL BALTO./PAT. JULY.1858" on the lock below the bolster and on the breech lever. This example is also stamped "344" at the tail of the lock and rear of the breech lever. "28" is stamped in two places on the underside of the breech lever, underside of the buttplate, underside of the lock, inside of the trigger guard, and inside of the patch box. It has a rounded blade front sight and a rear sight with leaves graduated to 300 and 500 yards.

Very good. The carbine displays a mottled gray patina with light pitting and oxidation. The action is fine, and the markings are legible. The stock is good with some overall light scratches, a few chips, and a hairline crack present to the left of the breech. Mechanically fine.