I recently purchased a Marlin Ballard Union Hill #8. The barrel has been replaced sometime in its past. Instead of the serial number stamped under the forearm, it is stamped A.E-. and a 3. I assume the 3 is possibly barrel size but does anyone have a clue on the A.E-. ? Just curious on my end.

Thanks Much.

No guesses here either, but a picture might help?

My Arthur Elliott rifle is marked on the barrel top in front of the front scope block A Elliott and the letters are roughly .030" high easily overlooked and roughly 1/2 the size of H.M. Popes mark. It is said Arthur did so because he claimed to be only half the craftsman as Pope. Elliott was Harry's only long term apprentice as I understand the tale.

Don1885. I knew Arthur and have 3 Rifles with Barrels by him. The Stamp size you mention was his last stamp. very small and easily overlooked. Some times he used it on the Schuetzen lever on the side. However he was not exactly an Apprentice. He was a well qualified Toolmaker of the time. He met Harry while shooting at the Zettler matches fired in New York during winter months. He was built very much like Pope. A small framed man. His personal small Bore .22 weighed 18Lbs and the stock was in roughed finish condition. He said when I met him that he did not need to do anything more to it in order to shoot well. I believe I have heard that Popes personal Rifle was much the same. If the Rifle mentioned he has large 1/8" block letters it still could be one of his. I have a 03 Springfield with a heavy barrel and it is marked on the side
A.Elliot
Boston Mass. 1930
The stamps are large and are about 1/8" high. The rifle has been shot hard with I believe Military match and is rough or sparked out. But it will still shoot from rest into about 3 1/2" from rest at 200 yds with Lake City match. All for now, HTH 
Regards, FITZ.

Another cell photo. Sorry but I cannot get my camera to work this evening. Isn't that always the case!!!!