Lot 12: Winchester Model 1866 Rifle Inscribed to Reverend Nassau

OB - EXCELLENT- all original parts; over 80% original finish; sharp lettering, numerals and design on metal; unmarred wood.

PRF - PROFESSIONALLY REFINISHED OR RESTORED

WW - WOOD IS WORSE FOR THE PERCENT FINISH RATING GIVEN

The receiver was manufactured in 1870, before later (post-1905) being returned to the factory and rebarreled, the stock refinished, and the barrel and receiver struck with factory oval proofs. The left side of the receiver is inscribed "Rev. R.H. Nassau./Benita/July 16, 1869. West Africa.". This period inscription is likely for Reverend Robert Hamill Nassau, who spent roughly 40 years as a Presbyterian missionary in West Africa. It is unclear when the inscription was added, but the date may refer to the day Nassau assumed his first missionary post on the island of Corisco.