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LOT 3017
Stunning Johnson & Sons Deluxe, Marty Rabeno Master Game Scene Engraved and Gold Inlaid
Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Takedown Short Rifle in Desirable .45-70 W.C.F. with Deluxe Huey
Case and Shooting Sticks - Serial no. 141243, 45-70 WCF cal., 22 inch part octagon bbl., blue/casehardened
finish, walnut stock. Originally manufactured in 1906, this Winchester Model 1886 was subsequently upgraded
to its current, beautiful, and functional, masterfully engraved, deluxe takedown short rifle configuration, as well
as being chambered in the powerful and desirable .45-70 W.C.F. cartridge. The consignor notes that the upgrade
work was carried out by Johnson & Sons, while the engraving is signed by FEGA Master Engraver Marty Rabeno.
The engraving follows some of the known Winchester styles, with the left of the receiver having a French grey
circular game scene featuring two American bison. The scene is outlined by delicately inlaid gold wire. The
scene is surrounded by American floral scrollwork and border designs, with the scrollwork continuing on
the opposite side of the receiver, takedown collar, breech of the barrel, and the forearm cap. There are gold
bands inlaid in the barrel at the muzzle and breech, and the initials “FRB” are inlaid in gold on the bottom
front of the receiver. The engraving is signed “M/RABENO” on the bottom of the receiver just in front of
the lever, and the serial number is marked on the lower tang (last digit somewhat faint). The three-line
Winchester trademark is on the upper tang. It is fitted with a combination front sight, a three-leaf “express”
type rear sight, with one of the leaves being of the adjustable ladder type, and sling swivel studs on the
bottom of the forearm cap and stock. It is mounted with a very finely figured, multi-point checkered
forearm and pistol grip stock with a smooth steel grip cap, cheekpiece on the left of the stock, and a leather
covered recoil pad. Includes both a very attractive and elaborate Huey steer hide covered takedown case
with “FRB” marked escutcheon on the lid and canvas cover with “FRB” marked leather patch, as well as a
leather sheath containing a set of shooting sticks.
CONDITION: Exceptionally fine as exquisitely master engraved, retaining 99% of the blue finish, vibrant case
colors, French grey, and bright nitre blue with some very light rotation marks on the magazine tube and otherwise
only the slightest handling marks, some storage grease residue, and crisp engraving. The deluxe wood is very fine
with a hairline crack at the front of the comb, otherwise only the slightest handling marks, and crisp checkering.
Mechanically excellent. The case, sheath, and shooting sticks are excellent with light handling evidence. This
stunning rifle would make a fantastic piece for display or hunting as a highly functional work of art!
Provenance: The Frank Brownell Collection.
Estimate: 15,000 - 25,000
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