4138 CIVIL WAR ERA BALL & WILLIAMS BALLARD SINGLE SHOT

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[?]Live Online Auction Starts In 2025 Nov 02 @ 10:00 (UTC-04:00 : AST/EDT)
Category Firearms & Military
Auction Currency USD
Start Price 350.00 USD
Estimated at 700.00 - 1,000.00 USD
CARBINE. Cal. 44 RF. S# 1988. Ball & Williams was the first of 5 makers to eventually build Ballard rifles, 1862-1865. Total production was approx. 15,600 of all configurations, with approx. 6,600 military style carbines produced. The state of Kentucky found the Ballard carbine favorable for use by the cavalry. After purchasing 3,000 pieces, they contracted for 1,000 more in April of 1863 and acquired another 600 on the open market that were rejects from the U.S. government purchase. The U.S. government contracted for 5,000 carbines, approx. 1,000 of which were delivered by March of 1864, and another 500 by August of 1864. The balance of the contract due was forfeited by Ball & Williams due to receiving higher prices from their Kentucky contracts. Additionally the state of New York purchased 500 carbines in September of 1863. Kentucky and New York purchases do not have specific markings identifying them. Bbl. 22" octagon to rnd. Top flat has standard "BALL & WILLIAMS/ Worcester, Mass." markings. Left quarter flat has Merwin & Bray agent markings. Right quarter flat has lightly visible patent markings. Blade front sight with 2-leaf folding carbine rear sight. Lever operated single shot action with manual extractor operating lever is located at the bottom of the forearm. Band fastened carbine forearm and straight grip stock with steel carbine buttplate and sling swivels. CONDITION: bbl. retains 60% possibly restored dull lightly faded blue showing scattered spots of pitting and handling marks. Markings on bbl. flats are weak. Action and fittings have faded gray appearance showing scattered pitting. Heavily sanded and refinished wood have age darkened appearance with scratches and marks. Stock has a hairline crack extending from the top tang. Sound action. Lightly pitted bore retains sound rifling. PROVENANCE: Estate of Russell Dickerman. (01-27142/DS). ANTIQUE. $700-1,000.