This is a stellar casehardened example of a first year production of Winchester's first highly successful repeating shotgun: the Model 1887. A total of 64,855 were manufactured in 1887-1901. Most prior shotguns were single or double barrel break actions. The Model 1887 held six shots and could be fired rapidly. It is no surprise that this fine arm was based on designs by John M. Browning given his long and productive relationship with Winchester. Production of this model began just two years after Browning sold his single shot design to Winchester. The Model 1887 built upon the solid reputation of Winchester’s lever action long guns that were already in widespread use throughout the country. Many Model 1887s replaced double barrel coach guns used by "shotgun messengers" employed by express companies and lawmen throughout the country. Cochise County Sheriff John Horton Slaughter is known to have been fond of these six shot repeaters. Manufactured in 1887, the first year of production. The blued barrel is fitted with a single bead front sight and has London proofs stamped on the left side at the breech. An additional London proofs are stamped on the breechblock and frame. The left side of the frame has the Winchester Repeating Arms Co. monogram, and the lower tang bears the Winchester address/patent dates marking. The two-piece forearm and round knob pistol grip stock are plain walnut. The buttstock is fitted with a checkered steel buttplate.

Excellent. The barrel and magazine tube retain 90% plus original blue finish with thinning to brown on the balance. The receiver retains 95% vivid original case colors, aged silver gray on the high edges and upper tang. The lever retains 70% original case colors. The hammer and breechblock retain 97% original case colors. The wood is very fine with minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent. An exceptional first year production Winchester Model 1887 shotgun that will be a standout piece to any sporting collection.