Manufactured in 1889 as a Third Model with dust cover rail integral to the receiver and dust cover with serrations at the rear. This rifle is one of 125 total Model 1873 rifles ordered by, and specially inscribed for the Atlanta Police Department. This specific example was part of the first shipment of 50 rifles in 1889. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration including the sling swivels and the Atlanta Police inscription on the left sideplate which is marked "44/Atlanta Police". It goes on to confirm receipt at the warehouse on 6 March 1889 and shipment the same day in order number 19207. The barrel has the standard two-line address/King's patent marking and "44 W.C.F." at the breech. The upper tang has the model marking and the serial number is on the lower tang. It is fitted with a German silver blade front sight, elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight (elevator a handmade brass replacement), and the noted special order sling swivels. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a trapdoor crescent buttplate containing an included four-piece cleaning rod.

Very good, retains strong traces of the original blue finish in sheltered areas and faint case color patterns on the hammer and lever with the balance mostly a smooth plum-brown patina. The rear sight elevator is a handmade replacement. The wood is also fine with some scattered light handling marks. Mechanically excellent. A rare opportunity to own a late 19th century police department factory inscribed Winchester Model 1873 rifle!