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The dust cover has the raised checkered thumb print which appeared through the 2500 serial
number range. As featured only on the first 350 Model 1873s manufactured, the lower tang has the script
engraved model and serial number (“MODEL 1873/47”), and the upper tang is blank. It has the early type
carbine rear sight located 1 inch from the receiver as seen through approximately serial number 1250. The brass
cartridge elevator is correctly unmarked and has square corners. By serial number 5000 the cartridge elevator
featured rounded edges. The introduction of caliber markings begin with the second models when calibers other
than 44 WCF were introduced to the Model 1873 line. It has the correct lever style with no safety block provision as
used up to the 27000 serial number range. A factory saddle ring is mounted on the left side of the receiver. The front
barrel band has an integral front blade sight. The barrel has the two-line Winchester legend stamped ahead of the
early rear sight which is marked “1”, “2,” and “3.” There are correctly no caliber markings. The left side of the tang and the
stock inlet have matching assembly number “65.” There is the number “1” on the barrel and front of the receiver under the forearm. The carbine stock is fitted with a trapdoor crescent buttplate. The butt compartment holds a three piece cleaning
rod. Niter blue loading gate, casehardened hammer, lever, and trigger, and remaining surfaces blued.
CONDITION: Fine as a true survivor of the Model 1873 legacy. The barrel, magazine, and frame retain 85% of the reapplied blue finish with thinning to brown on the balance. The barrel bands and buttplate are mostly a smooth brown patina mixed with blue. Traces of reapplied niter blue remain on the loading gate. 50% of the case colors remain on the hammer and lever. The wood
is also fine with minor scratches and dings. Mechanically excellent. A true rarity in Winchester collecting, this earliest known Winchester First Model 1873 Carbine no. 47 is a must have for the serious collector and well worthy of the finest collection. Provenance: The Wayne Connor Collection.
Estimate: 40,000 - 60,000
SERIAL NUMBER LISTED IN THE BOOK WINCHESTER'S NEW MODEL OF 1873, VOL. I BY GORDON
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