^Lot 64 Civil War Merrill Breechloading Percussion Carbine, 1st Type

Civil War Merrill Breechloading Percussion Carbine, 1st Type, #10929, .54 cal., unmarked 22.1" round barrel with standard sights; long receiver has 8.25" rear-hinged breech-lever marked "J.M. Merrill Balto./Pat. July 1858" with articulated plunger to seat combustible cartridge in chamber, nipple bolster with cleanout screw; beveled lockplate has Merrill marking, "Apl. 9 May 21-26-61" below, serial number at rear. Brass fittings incl. trigger guard, 4.4" patchbox, buttplate marked "G", screw-retained band. Oil-finished walnut halfstock has splinter-type forend, 5.25" sling bar/ring at left. Condition is good, the bright metal having oxidation/light erosion (breech lever smooth gray gunmetal), sharp edges and markings, age-toned brass. Stock is sound showing age and use marks, hairline cracks at wrist, re-shaping at wrist/forend, added finish. Replacement rear sight. Action is crisp, breech hinge sound, bore shows moderate erosion, good rifling. Est.: $1,500-$1,800. (Antique)