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AS PICTURED AND DESCRIBED IN THE BOOK WINCHESTER: AN AMERICAN LEGEND BY WILSON
The rifle was authenticated by renowned Winchester expert and author George
Madis as confirmed by his included letter of authenticity. Madis wrote “I have been asked for my
opinion as to the originality of this rifle, and have made a careful examination of both the inside and
outside of the gun...On the front portion of the receiver additions have been soldered to accommodate a heavier forend than seen on most first models. This work appears old and is probably factory work, possibly the earliest model 1866 with flares for
the forend. Later 1866 models all
have the flares continued into the
receiver.” Madis noted assembly
number “1590” on the left side
of the lower tang and on each
sideplate. He remarked, “These
markings are correct and original.”
He authenticated the forearm
and barrel, writing “The forend
is of first model style, heavier
than standard to accommodate
the heavier barrel, and the
escutcheons on each side have
been replaced with large diamond
shaped plates. A twenty-six and
half inch barrel of slightly heavier weight
than most first models is seen on this rifle. Twenty-four inch barrels
were standard. The barrel is milled to accommodate the twenty-four inch
magazine tube. There are no markings on the barrel except for the serial number under the barrel. This is the third Model 1866 in
the 15000 series that has been observed with no barrel marking. Rifling, chamber, dimensions and muzzle are all correct for the serial series.” He noted “minor replating on the bronze receiver, probably long ago, a replacement front sight, and correct rear sight.” Madis’ final thoughts: “After a close examination of this rifle and considering my examination of many other First Model 1866 rifles, it is my opinion that it is an original rifle with a barrel that is heavier and longer than standard, and is all original as made by Winchester. It was probably made as one of the earliest of 1866 rifles with the flare for the forend which would be used for all later models.”
The serial number “15109” appears the side of the lower tang, bottom of the barrel, under the magazine tube, stock inlet, and inside the
buttplate at the toe. As noted by Madis the barrel lacks the Henry and King patent dates marking commonly encountered on first models.
The receiver and buttplate are plated in silver. The highly figured walnut forearm and straight grip stock have a high gloss varnish finish. The
rifle is pictured in R.L. Wilson’s “Winchester: An American Legend” on page 26 where it is identified as a “rare First Model or ‘Flatside’ 1866 rifle, number 15109, with such early features as diamond-escutcheon forend lacking forend cap, Henry styling to areas of the frame, and serial numbering on side of tang (covered by buttstock).”
CONDITION: Fine. The barrel and magazine tube retain 40% original blue finish with a smooth brown patina on the balance. The
receiver and buttplate retain 90% plus of the attractive aged darkened silver plating. The receiver has tight fitting side plates.
The wood is also fine with a number of minor dings and scratches and most of the original varnish remaining. Mechanically
excellent. This Winchester Model 1866 rifle is the transitional link between the Henry framed first model and the second
model. This historic rifle is worthy of the finest private or public collection. It is a must have piece for the serious Winchester
collector. Without it no Model 1866 collection can be truly considered complete!
Provenance: The Al Kelly Collection;
The Raymond Bentley Collection;
The Robert Wyatt Collection;
The LeRoy Merz Collection;
The Bill Sheplton Collection;
The Rolly Marleau Collection;
The Wayne Connor Collection.
Estimate: 55,000 - 85,000
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