This is an example of a seldom found factory engraved Marlin Model that was manufactured in 1902. The nickel plated receiver is decorated with Marlin's No. 1 style of engraving consisting of scroll and border patterns with a game scene on the left side. The vignette depicts a buck in a forest scene. In addition to the receiver, the hammer, lever, and forend cap are plated in nickel. The barrel and magazine tube are blued. The rifle is fitted with a Stewart beaded blade front sight and an elevation adjustable rear sight. The half octagon barrel is stamped with the two-line Marlin legend ending with the 1892 patent date ahead of the rear sight. The top of the receiver is marked "MARLIN SAFETY" with a drilled and tapped hole through the first "A". The upper tang is marked "MODEL/1897." The nicely figured forearm and pistol grip stock feature checkering. The buttstock is fitted with a hard rubber factory buttplate.

Very fine. The barrel and magazine tube retain 95% period refinished blue finish with thinning to brown on the balance. The remaining metal surfaces retain 95% original nickel finish. The engraving is crisp. The buttplate toe has been repaired. The lightly sanded and reoiled wood is very fine with minimal handling marks and crisp re-cut checkering. Mechanically excellent. A seldom encountered factory engraved Marlin deluxe Model 1897 rifle in high condition that will make a perfect addition to a Marlin or decorative arms collection.