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CONDITION: Exceptionally fine. The rifle retains 90% of the original blue and 85% plus vivid color casehardened finish. The forearm cap, receiver, hammer and lever have vivid case colors. The case colors on the bottom of the lever have faded slightly and show some minor handling wear. The barrel and magazine retain 95% of the original blue finish. There are several small spots of pitting on the barrel and magazine between the barrel band and the muzzle and traces of pitting on the barrel band. The balance of the barrel and magazine remain in excellent condition with sharp edges and crisp markings. The combination front sight has an 1891 patent date and is a period addition to
the rifle. The dust cover and loading gate retain 95% plus of the fire blue finish. A significant amount of blue finish is present on the bolt. The highly figured, fancy grain walnut stock and forearm are in excellent condition. Nearly all of the high polish piano finish remains, and the checkering is sharp. Wear on the stock and forearm is limited to a few scattered and relatively minor handling marks. This is an exceptional example of a Special Order, Deluxe Winchester Model 1873 rifle that would be a stand-out piece in the finest collection of Winchester lever action rifles. Provenance: The Joe Marlin Hilliard Collection.
Estimate: 50,000 - 75,000