CONSIGNED Winchester Model 1873 Made in 1888, 38WCF, 24" Octagonal Barrel, 10rd Magazine Tube, Hand Checkered Stock & Forend, Engraved Receiver, Cody Firearms Museum Factory Letter, No Box

Serial Number : 281044
Original 1873 manufactured in 1888
Original Front Sight Included

From the Consignee:
Offered for your examination is a very rare Winchester specimen.
A Winchester Model 1873 “Third Model” Serial No. 281044 chambered in caliber 38-40. This rifle is now 137 years old! Just think of the stories this rifle could tell if it could talk to you. It sports a 24” octagon barrel with worn but bright defined rifling. This gun shoots well and accurate. This rifle has a large brass bead front sight to aid the owner in enjoying it due to his poor vision and the original front sight is included. No longer can he enjoy this and wants to pass it on to a new collector. This Model 1873 had its serial number applied on September 19, 1888 at the Winchester factory and was received into the Winchester factory warehouse on October 15, 1888. Then this rifle was shipped off to its first seller which would have been the local gun store somewhere on October 17, 1888. The Cody Firearms Museum has researched this rifle and offered up a document signed by them which documents its history as known by actual Winchester historical records owned by this museum. Not always were add on options recorded in those days and often were done by Winchesters master engravers as an added request.
This 1873 has fine grade Walnut furniture which was left with all nicks as restored sometime in the 1950’s. It is checkered in the common Winchester checkering pattern of the day. The frame has been left in the white for this restoration. We have no idea why.
The engraving pattern is in the Madis 1 of 1000 book so we do know this is authentic engraving to the best of our knowledge. The shading is well defined. There are a few very small pits visible when closely examined on the frame which does not detract from its rarity or value in this case. The action functions as it should and was recently serviced by Ahlmans expert gunsmith in 2024.
Here is your chance to acquire a rare piece of history that sports the extras that were offered back in that time in history.