Manufactured in 1898, the included factory letter states the rifle was received in the warehouse on August 1, 1898, and shipped on August 4 on order number 1213 with an octagon barrel in .30 caliber, and plain trigger (no mention of takedown). The letter indicates the rifle was repaired and returned on two separate occasions: October 22, 1898, on order number 11498 and November 1, 1898 on order number 13436. The rifle is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight, elevation adjustable rear sight, and a Lyman receiver sight. The top barrel flat has the two-line address marking ahead of the rear sight and "30 WCF" at the breech on the top flat and the two-line nickel steel marking on the upper left flat. The upper tang has the three-line model/patent date marking. The underside of the frame has the serial number. Mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate. Provenance: Property of a Distinguished Southern Clergyman

Fine, retaining 70% original blue finish with thinning to a brown on the balance. The takedown collar has an artificially applied brown patina. The wood is also fine with a surface chip near the toe and minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent.