Just under 14,500 Merrill carbines were manufactured in two variations during the Civil War. This example is the first type with patch box and the flat knurled type latch. Merrill carbines were almost exclusively issued to cavalry units during the war, including units from New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Indiana, Wisconsin, Kentucky, and Delaware. The top of the loading lever is marked "J.H. MERRILL BALTO./PAT. JULY. 1858." and "3520". The lock plate is marked "J.H.MERRILL BALTO/PAT. JULY. 1858./APL 9. MAY 21-28-61" at the front and serial number "3413" behind the hammer. The barrel has a notch rear sight with two folding leaves and a fixed front blade front sight. The left stock flat has a saddle ring bar. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked at the toe of the stock. Provenance: The George Moller Collection