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LOT 23
Rare Documented Factory Exhibition Antique Winchester Model 1890 Slide Action Boy’s Short Rifle in .22 Short
with Casehardened Receiver in and Factory Letter - Serial no. 55073, 22 RF Short cal., 22 inch octagon bbl., blue/
casehardened finish, walnut stock. This very rare and unique Winchester Model 1890 in boy’s rifle configuration. Per the
accompanying factory letter the rifle was received in the warehouse on January 6, 1898, and shipped “NY Ex 98” with a 22
inch barrel in .22 short caliber and boy’s stock. The letter also provided additional warehouse and shipping dates (received
in March 5, 1898, and shipped on March 8, 1898, and again on April 1, 1898). This series of warehouse and shipping entries
is typical for Winchester’s well-traveled factory exhibition pieces. References to “NY Ex” or “NY Expo” are found in factory
letters for other exhibition grade Winchester rifles and it has been speculated that it is a reference to the American Institute
Fair, which was held annually in New York City from 1829 to the late 1890s. Standard fixed blade front and elevation
adjustable rear notch sights, first style barrel inscription, “22 SHORT” caliber marking on top flat at the breech, Second
Model receiver with hidden locking lugs, and three-line maker, model, and patent marking on the upper tang. 12 groove
slide handle and nicely figured plain straight grip buttstock with casehardened crescent buttplate. Factory assembly
number “517” stamped on left side of tang and rear of buttstock under buttplate. This is very important in that it proves
authenticity of the shorter wood. Also an “X” and “A/7” on face of internal buttstock frame juncture.
CONDITION: Extremely fine with 85% plus original blue finish on the barrel, small visible brown spot on the right side near
the muzzle, crisp markings, and some light scratches and dings. The receiver has 90% plus vibrant original case colors
with some light, scattered brown spotting, and mild cycling marks on the receiver rails. The wood is fine with attractive
grain, small dings and scratches overall, and mostly mottled brown patina on the buttplate with 30% original case colors.
Mechanically excellent.
Provenance: The Kidd Brothers Collection; Private Collection.
Estimate: 25,000 - 40,000
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