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These rifles earned a distinguished reputation on the frontier
among those who carried them and have become one of
the iconic firearms of the “Wild West” among collectors. The
frontier use of these rifles, and often long careers as working
guns, has left relatively few available on the collector’s market
in exceptional condition like this one. This is particularly
evident among rifles in standard configurations, which were,
unsurprisingly often viewed as more of a tool than a collectors
item that should be protected. Thus, a standard configuration,
late 1800s production Model 1886 in outstanding condition
like this one is truly an incredible find for any Winchester lever
action or 19th century American arms collector!
This 1894 production ‘86 is in incredible, benchmark
condition, easily falling into the top 2% of known antique,
standard configuration Model 1886 rifles. The included factory
letter lists the rifle in .40-82 caliber with an octagon barrel
and plain trigger when received at the warehouse on 30
March 1894 and shipped the next day in order number 11475.
It features the desirable casehardened frame, which was
standard on the Model 1886 until around 1903. The top of the
barrel is marked with the two-line Winchester address and the
“40-82 W.C.F.” caliber marking at the breech. The upper tang is
marked with the model marking, while the lower tang has the
two-line patent dates and the serial number.
It is fitted with a pair of “sporting” sights featuring a No. 21
German silver blade front sight and an elevation adjustable
No. 22 notch rear sight. It is mounted with a smooth forearm
and straight grip stock, both showing some attractive wavy
grain, and a smooth steel crescent buttplate.
CONDITION: Excellent plus. The barrel and magazine tube
retain 97% plus of the original blue finish overall with a few
handing marks. The breech bolt retains 98% plus of the
bright original blue finish. 98% of the bright original nitre
blue remains on the loading gate. The receiver retains 98%
plus of the stunning, vibrant original case colors. The forend
cap, hammer, lever, and buttplate retain 95% original case
colors. The wood is also excellent with some minor dings and
scratches. Mechanically excellent. This is a truly incredible
example of a standard configuration, antique Winchester
Model 1886, the likes of which one may not see again for
some time!
Estimate: 55,000 - 95,000
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