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The Marlin was the stronger gun and could chamber the popular .45-70
Govt. cartridge, and it found buyers in the American West as is clearly shown in
advertisements in the Dakotas, Montana, and elsewhere in the 1880s. This gun too
made it to the West as it is inscribed to a known Western settler. The right side of the
receiver is period inscribed with the name “C.F. LUEBBEN,” and the inscription certainly has
the appearance of being factory. The rifle was owned by German immigrant Charles Frederick Luebben (1874-1947). He came to the U.S. in 1896 and earned a living as a farmer/labor in several western states including Montana, Idaho, and California. Knowing that this gun made
it out West makes its high condition even more impressive. Western guns were meant to be used, and their condition generally shows hard use. This deluxe Model 1881 was
extremely well cared for, nearly having the appearance of just coming
off factory production line. At the time of
his death at the age of 72 in March 1947,
Luebben was employed as a woodcutter
on the Homer Hawkins ranch in the Ophir
district, California. Cause of death was a
heart attack. He was survived by his brother
who lived in San Francisco and worked in
the restaurant business. Included are census
reports, obituary, and death certificate
related to Luebben. The rifle is fitted with a
combination Beach front sight, an elevation
adjustable rear sight, and a tang peep sight.
The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-
line address/patent dates marking ahead of
the rear sight and “45 GOVT” at the breech.
CONDITION: Excellent to near mint, retaining
98% plus bright original high polished blue
finish with slight thinning to brown on the balance. The inscription is crisp. The hammer, lever, and forend cap retain 95% original case colors. 60% original case colors remain on the buttplate. The highly figure wood is also excellent with minor dings and scratches and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. A spectacular deluxe Marlin Model 1881 rifle that will be a standout piece in any lever action or western collection. This rifle stands as a testament to the western spirit and is worthy of the finest private or public collection.
Estimate: 25,000 - 37,500
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