First Model Merrill cavalry carbine. Brass butt plate, patchbox, trigger guard, and barrel band. Has the early style flat latch to secure the lever in the closed position with latch locking into the back of the rear sight. This is the product of James Merrill, of Baltimore. The government purchased some 14,255 Merrill carbines and 770 rifles during the war. The majority of the carbines, something over 10,000 were of this model, with the Second Model coming in during July 1864 and accounting for about 4,100. This one is clearly numbered 2764 making it a very early example.The wood has a warm reddish brown tone overall. The edges of the lock table are very good. The wood has expected minor handling marks and wear. The metal is very good, with smooth surface overall and some pitting near the muzzle. . The brass has a medium tone. The patchbox has a tight fit. The markings are sharp and legible: J.H. MERRILL BALTO. / PAT. JULY 1858 / APL. 9 MAY 21-28-61. on the lock plate forward of the hammer, and sn vertically to the rear of the hammer. The breech lever is marked, J.H. MERRILL BALTO. / PAT. JULY 1858. on the neck near the latch, with the matching serial number. Bore is VG – clean with good rifling.

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