Merrill Carbine Bullet

Description

This lead cast Merrill Carbine bullet was recovered from Boston Common in the 1980’s during an archaeological dig when the park’s lighting system was updated. Appearing to have not been fired, it was likely dropped by Union troops during the Civil War. Regiments would often train and muster on the Common before being shipped south to fight. A lead "minie ball" ranging from .54 to .58 caliber fired through a Springfield rifle was the most commonly issued ammunition for Union troops. This example measures .69 and was manufactured for a Merrill Carbine Rifle, a less common weapon usually reserved for precision shooting, however the larger caliber is quite unusual. Scanned by Brian Schools.