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LOT 1016
Magnificent, Deluxe Silver and Gilt, Factory Panel Scene Engraved, John Ulrich Signed, Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle - Serial no. 38056, 44 cal., 24 inch octagon bbl., blue/gold washed finish, walnut stock. Without a doubt a signed John Ulrich factory engraved masterpiece is a crown jewel in Winchester collecting, especially when the “steel canvas” is the iconic Model 1866. The late firearms historian R.L. Wilson has noted, “In the period c. 1869 to c. 1920, the majority of signed, engraved Winchesters will bear the stamp J.ULRICH.” His earliest work, however, bears his “JU” signature in large script letters on the left side of the upper tang and mark the earliest work John Ulrich did for Winchester. The three earliest signed John Ulrich Winchester Model 1886s known to Wilson were nos. 36480, 36482 and 36484 (see “Winchester Engraving,” pages 142-143). In 2014, Rock Island Auction Co. rewrote the history books as we were fortunate to catalog the second earliest known John Ulrich signed Model
1866, no. 36481. (Note: The earliest J. Ulrich signed Model 1866 identified in “Winchester Engraving” is
no. 36480 on page 142 but Wilson incorrectly names No. 36482 as the earliest known signed example
on page 132.) And now we bring to you no. 38056. Comparable to the other early known J. Ulrich
signed Model 1886s, no. 38056 has the “JU” signature and similar decorative treatment with open panels, detailed geometric motifs and intricate scrollwork typical of John Ulrich’s early work. While this rifle
does not hold the title as the “first”, it can be distinguished as the only, a one of one, for its combination deluxe silver and gold gilt treatment on the frame. The frame is silver plated with the exception of the panel scene on the left hand side which at first appears as “unfinished” or exposed brass but then quickly reveals its original gilt, glistening in the sheltered areas of the engraving as well as proudly visible on the forend cap and swivels. This is the only Winchester rifle known to feature this remarkable and delicate deluxe “parcel-gilt” treatment. Furthermore the engraving on No. 38056 also marks a departure from John Ulrich’s other early signed work as the embellishment is more lavishly executed by the inclusion
of the game themed panel scene on the left side plate. Game scenes eventually became John Ulrich’s most specular trademark embellishment. See, for example, nos. 104463, 112271 and 79863 as game scene engraved Model 1886s showcasing some of his most elaborate work (“Winchester Engraving,” page 146-147). This Model 1866 was manufactured in 1870 and has a Third Model receiver with visible serial number (“38056”) located in an engraved banner on the lower tang behind the trigger.