The Marlin-Ballard receiver has engraved scrollwork on a punch dot background. The scrollwork is surrounded by engraved borders, and there are additional scrolls at the rear of the frame sides. A similar motif is found on page 180 of Dutcher's "Ballard: The Great American Single Shot Rifle" where it is described as "a most handsome, not often seen design." In fact, the engraving pictured in the book is on a rifle (7715) which is one serial number away from this example (7716). In comparing the two engravings, we see that the motif on this rifle is more elaborate than the one pictured in Dutcher's book. This has given rise to the possibility that the engraving on this rifle was done by famed Master Engraver L.D. Nimschke. The type of scrollwork is indicative of Nimschke's work as seen in the engraved plates reproduced in Wilson's "L.D. Nimschke, Firearm Engraver" on pages 4, 9, 26, 28 and 86. This book is included. The receiver has the two-line address marking on the left side and is fitted with double set triggers and a tang peep sight. The Stevens-Pope barrel has a false muzzle, globe front sight with spirit level and two scope blocks and is marked "STEVENS-POPE" above the Stevens address marking. Comes with a bullet starter and wooden bullet seater rod. The lever has a smooth walnut panel. The forearm and stock have a relief oak leaf carving. The forearm has provisions for a palm rest. The perch belly stock has a raised cheekpiece, a diamond inlay on the bottom of the pistol grip and nickel-plated Schuetzen buttplate.

Fine as customized by Pope. The barrel retains 60% blue finish with the balance a smooth gray patina. Traces of original case colors remain on the mostly silvered frame. 85% original nickel plating remains on the buttplate. The custom relief carved wood is fine showing some slightly textured and crazing varnish. Mechanically needs work as the set trigger does not function.