(A) VERY FINE MARLIN BALLARD NO. 6 - 1/2 RIGBY MID-RANGE OFF HAND SINGLE SHOT RIFLE.

Manufactured circa 1880 to 1882. Rifle features a blued Rigby pattern round barrel. Muzzle is tastefully engraved with a double line and vine band. Breech also embellished with arrow motif and "BALLARD" engraved in a flowing banner with light scroll and line work. Wind gauge globe front sight and mid-range Vernier rear sights. Richly case hardened action factory engraved with well executed running elk and bear vignettes flanked by punch dot shaded foliate scrolls and zig-zag borders. It is well known Ballard rifles were engraved by masters L.D. Nimschke and Conrad F. Ulrich Jr., this example likely in Ulrich's hand who engraved most of Marlin's production from 1881 to 1910. Horn tipped finely checkered walnut splinter forend. Checkered walnut pistol grip stock with cheekpiece and nickeled Swiss butt plate. Matching numbers observed throughout. CONDITION: Excellent. Barrel retains nearly all of its original blue with some mild freckling and other scattered marks. Receiver likewise exhibits rich, muted case colors. Underside of lever has largely faded to patterned gray patina. Stocks are very fine, some minor handling marks present. Horn tip has some moderate chipping. Butt plate also has some minor losses to nickel on the prongs, as well as clouding throughout. Excellent, bright and shiny bore. Sharp rifling throughout. Fine mechanics. A truly exceptional example of a scarce and desirable deluxe single shot. Barrel Length: 30" Caliber/Bore: .38-50 FFL Status: Antique Manufacturer: Marlin Model: Ballard No. 6-1/2 Rigby Serial Number: 19179