Ball & Williams were originally contracted to manufacture 5,000 of these carbines in January 1864 but ultimately only delivered 1,500 before abandoning the contract in favor of better profits received from contracts for the Kentucky cavalry. Of the 1,500 delivered to the federal government, 1,200 were issued to the Vermont militia after the St. Albans raid, the northernmost action of the war. This example has a blade front sight, standard notch and folding leaf rear sight, the Ballard patent on the right side of the frame, Ball & Williams and Merwin & Bray markings on the left side of the frame, "GH", "MM", and "H" inspection marks on the various components, and an "MM" cartouche on the left side of the stock.

Fine with 40% plus original blue finish remaining mixed with mostly smooth brown patina, strong original case colors on the hammer, some light oxidation, and minor marks. The wood is very fine with sharp cartouche, mild handling wear, small dings and scratches, and a few very slight chips. Most of the markings are crisp, and it is mechanically excellent.