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Second Lowest Known Serialized Marlin Model 1888 Lever Action Rifle

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:4,500.00 USD Estimated At:9,000.00 - 15,000.00 USD
Second Lowest Known Serialized Marlin Model 1888 Lever Action Rifle
Approximately 4,814 Marlin Model 1888 lever action rifles were manufactured from 1888-1892. The lowest serial number known in this model is 19559 making this rifle "19560" the second lowest known serialized M1888 Marlin rifle manufactured see "Marlin Firearms A History of the Guns and the Company That Made Them" by Lt. Col. Brophy page 167. This example has a blade front sight with ivory bead insert and a sporting type adjustable rear sight. Full length tubular magazine. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two line New Haven address/patent date (October 1887). Blue with casehardened hammer, lever, end cap and buttplate. Smooth forearm and straight grip stock with steel forend cap and crescent buttplate.
BBL: 24 inch octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 44
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips:
Serial Number: 19560


Excellent. 90% original blue finish remains on the barrel showing limited high point thinning and a few scattered surface scratches. All markings are crisp and clear. The receiver retains a 80% original blue finish having thinned in exposed areas concentrated on the right side with some spotting and surface scratches scattered. The loading gate still retains the majority of its original high polish blue finish. The casehardened components have evenly silvered out however all still show strong traces of deep original color. The wood is excellent with pressure marks and light scratches concentrated on the forearm. The action is excellent. Overall a strong early example of highly desirable Marlin Model 1888 lever action rifle.