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“38 CAL.” is stamped in script letters on the brass cartridge elevator. The serial number
is stamped on the lower tang between the lever latch and the rear tang screw. Deluxe
Model 1873 rifles with a factory fitted wind gauge front sight and Vernier rear sight are
very rare and desirable to collectors.
CONDITION: Exceptionally fine. The rifle retains 85% of the original blue and 75% plus
color casehardened finish. Most of the blue finish is present on the dust cover, loading
gate and Vernier rear sight. The case colors on the left side of the frame and lever
are vivid; the case colors on the right side of the frame and lever are more muted.
The barrel, cartridge elevator and tang markings are crisp. The stock and forearm
are both very fine. The varnish finish on the forearm has some minor handling wear
and there are several shallow handling marks on the underside of the forearm near
the junction with the frame. The stock has nearly all of the high polish finish; wear is
limited to several insignificant handling marks between the pistol grip cap and the toe
of the buttplate. Mechanically excellent. This is an exceptional documented example
of a special order, Winchester deluxe Model 1873 lever action rifle with special order
windage and Vernier target sights.
Provenance: The Gateway Collection.
Estimate: 50,000 - 75,000
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