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LOT 1048
Rare and Exceptional Winchester First Model 1873 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine with Factory Letter - Serial no. 14467, 44 WCF cal., 20 inch round bbl., blue finish, walnut stock. The Model 1873 is one of the most famous of all American firearms and has been popularly known as “the Gun that Won the West” due to its popularity with pioneers. For collectors there are three basic variations to the Model 1873 with the primary differences between the styles found in the design of the dust cover guide and dust cover. Offered here is a highly desirable first model in seldom encountered high condition. These first models
saw hard use, especially among pioneers headed westward, and are almost never found in the exceptional condition that this example exhibits. The first model began the legacy of the Model 1873 that has endured to this day. This carbine features the distinctive dust cover held in place by grooved guides on either side of the receiver, dust cover with a checkered oval finger grip on top, and lever latch with visible screw threads. The accompanying factory letter dated August 22, 2006 addressed to Tom Selleck confirms the carbine configuration when received in the warehouse on January 6, 1877 and shipped on July 21. The factory letter also mentions “500” written in the margin of the factory ledger (significance unknown). The barrel is stamped with the two-line address/patent dates marking. “MODEL 1873” is stamped on the upper tang. The carbine correctly lacks caliber markings. The front sight is integral to the barrel band, and there is a two leaf rear sight and a saddle ring mounted on the left side of the receiver. Mounted on a carbine stock with
trapdoor buttplate.