Total production of type I and II Merrill carbines by James H. Merrill of Baltimore, Maryland, was just under 14,500, and nearly all were issued to Union cavalry units including several from New York and Pennsylvania. Merrill was in Washington, D.C. in 1816 and initially worked with his brother William as a gunsmith in Baltimore in the 1840s. His first breech loading design was patented in 1856. Features include a brass patch box and furniture, blade front and notch rear sight with two folding leaves marked for 300 and 500 yards, a sling bar and ring attached to the brass side plate on the left stock flat, matching serial numbers on the tail of the lock and lever. Boxed script "RP" cartouche on the left stock flat. Carved initials "BAC" in the left side of the buttstock. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Includes wood tampion. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Fine, retaining 85% period refinished nitre blue finish with some areas of light pitting on the lock and around the breech area, and bright brass fittings. Stock is also fine with some light handling marks, a few scratches including the carved initials, and a nice cartouche. Mechanically fine.