This is a fine example of a scarce Civil War contract Ball carbine manufactured by Lamson & Co. Only approximately 1,002 of these were manufactured. They appear to have all been delivered after the hostilities ended and thus those few that remain are generally in outstanding condition for a weapon produced during the war. The left side of the receiver is marked "E.G. LAMSON & CO./WINDSOR. VT./U.S./BALLS PATENT./JUNE.23.1863/MAR. 15, 1864." There is a small "S" stamped on most of the components and a very small "GGS" stamped on the top of the stock just ahead of the buttplate tang. It has a fixed blade front sight and two leaf folding rear sight with "1", "4", and "6" graduation markings. The cleaning rod is offset to the right side of the forearm and a sling ring and bar are on the left side of the receiver. A sharp "GGS" cartouche is on the left wrist with a "P" at the top edge. The buttplate is marked "O'N 26" (presumed to be a collection inventory number).

Fine with some cold blue touch ups visible on several spots on the barrel. The barrel mostly displays a plum brown patina and the action retains nearly all of the rich case colors. The colors are particularly vibrant on the hammer, upper tang and left side of the action. The wood is very good and displays several pressure marks and small dents. The markings, including the cartouche, are mostly crisp and the action functions fine.