Scarce Civil War US Contract Model 1864 Ballard Carbine by Ball & Williams

Serial #9825, .38 RF, 22" part octagon barrel with a fine, bright bore. This carbine has matching numbers on the frame, barrel, and breech-block, with the metal retaining traces of the original blue on protected areas, and a mellow plum-brown patina on the balance. Mild silvering is present at the muzzle, along the edges of the facets, and on the projections and high surfaces. The "BALL & WILLIAMS / WORCESTER MASS. / MERWIN & BRAY AGT’S / NEW YORK" and "MM" US inspector markings of Miles Moulton are still clear and legible. Bright original nitre blue is still present on the protected portions of the block, and some original blue remains on the hammer. The smooth walnut forend and straight-wrist buttstock are in good-very good shape, with numerous minor handling marks and small blemishes scattered about the re-oiled finish, but the "MM" at the heel of the butt and the cartouche on the left side are still crisp and clear. Additionally, there is a short crack that extends rearward from the tip of the wrist tang along the left side of the comb. This is a really nice example of a desirable Civil War Ballard, and is in very good-near fine condition overall. It would make a great addition to any collection. Antique