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Rare Open-Top Winchester Model 1873 Rifle

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:5,000.00 USD Estimated At:10,000.00 - 15,000.00 USD
Rare Open-Top Winchester Model 1873 Rifle
Auction Location:

16600 Aston Street
Irvine, CA
Rare Early Open-Top Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle, with factory added dustcover rail, #27498, .44-40 cal., 28'' octagonal barrel, blue finish with case hardened frame, single set trigger, smooth walnut forend and handguard, crescent buttplate, mid-range vernier tang sight, and combination front sight; standard rear sight is present. Shipped from the warehouse May 8, 1878, with factory letter verifying all features, except sights. Rifle additionally features factory screwed-on dustcover rail with impressed 2nd Model thumbprint dustcover. Currently there are only seven known examples of the factory dustcover-added known to existence, falling between the numbers #27434-#27727. This particular rifle is featured in a Spring 2013 Winchester Collector publication, pages 16-17. The receiver also features the higher extractor and the slot cut behind the chamber opening, as well as matching three-digit assembly numbers to upper and lower tang (233). Left side of receiver is marked below sideplate with the numeral ''4'', and these single digit markings in this location are unique to this model. It is interesting to note that #27727 is a One of One Thousand, and #27589 has yet to be accounted for. Condition is about fine retaining ample amounts of original Winchester black/blue to barrel and mag tube. Case hardened frame has toned a silvery gray. Stock with light scuffs, scratches, and oil darkening near metal surfaces. Bottom of bronze lifter has been marked by a previous owner ''LLV''. Rifle remains mechanically excellent with a nice smooth action and very good bore. Est.: $10,000-$15,000. (Antique)