This exceptional Marlin Model 97 features wonderful factory engraving and beautiful case colors. The casehardened receiver is decorated with Marlin factory No. 2 engraving pattern consisting of scrollwork, punch dot backgrounds, zig-zag line borders and game panel scenes depicting stags on an outcropping. Additional light scrollwork appears on the forend cap and exposed barrel flat at the breech. The patterns are based on engravings created by Conrad Ulrich who served as Marlin's factory engraver from c. 1881 to 1910 before moving to work for Winchester. The barrel is fitted with a dovetail Lyman blade front sight and an elevation adjustable rear sight and is stamped with the two-line Marlin address/patent legend ahead of the rear sight and the caliber marking on the upper left flat at the breech. The underside of the receiver has the serial number. The upper tang is marked "Marlin/MODEL '97," which was adopted in 1905 per Brophy. The nicely figured forearm and straight grip stock are checkered, and the buttstock is fitted with a crescent buttplate.

Excellent. The barrel and magazine retain 90% plus original blue finish with some dark pitting on the left side of the barrel and scratches on the right. 95% original blue finish remains on the buttplate. 98% plus fiery original case colors remain on the receiver. The lever has faded to a gray. The wood is also excellent with limited handling marks and crisp checkering, with a dent, scratch on the left side of the stock. Mechanically excellent. A highly attractive factory engraved Marlin Deluxe Model 97 Rifle for your growing lever action or high art firearms collection.