Were ballard serial numbers stamped when the frame was made or when the rifle was assembled ? What is the highest number known ?

Since the serial numbers are in multiple places, including the stocks, the numbers would have to be done as parts are fitted, to ensure they stayed together after fitting, and later final finishing. 
Serial numbers of the last Marlin Firearms Co. Ballard rifles go up close to 37,000 from what I've personally owned or seen. Can't say I've seen one in the 37,000 range though.
Another thing to consider is prior to Marlin incorporation the Ballard rifles were marked JM Marlin, and those serial numbers started at #1 and went up to at least 12,000 range that I've seen, but maybe higher? And after the name change to Marlin Firearms Co. John Marlin restarted Ballard serial numbers again. So you'll find the same serial number on two Ballard rifles with JM Marlin and Marlin Firearms Co. rollstamps. I once owned a #6 JM Marlin and a #2 Marlin Firearms Co. rifles with the same serial number on both.

scharfe wrote on Aug 11^th, 2023 at 11:48am:


Yes, and a 3 line forged also! There's more of them out there, so always need to drop the breech block to check to be sure. 
I had a 2 line cast #2 in .32 Long, and still have a 3 line engraved #6 1/2 Rigby that's forged.