The Model 27 was first advertised in 1909 and replaced with the improved Model 27S only two years later which remained in production until 1932. Very few were engraved or remain in high condition. This stunning example is marked "Marlin/No 27-S" on the upper tang, "25-20 M" on the upper right flat at the breech, and two-line Marlin address/patent date ahead of the rear sight dovetail. It has a beaded blade front sight, filler block in the rear sight dovetail slot, upper tang factory drilled and tapped with a Marble tang sight installed, deluxe "F" pattern checkered stock and forearm, flourishes of scrollwork at the breech along with gold and platinum inlaid bands, and beautiful, finely detailed scroll, and game scene engraving on the sides of the action consisting of a pair of rabbits on the right and a pair of squirrels on the left. Both game scenes are accented by gold inlaid borders. The engraving even extends to the takedown knob and buttplate. The engraving on the receiver is profuse, near full coverage. The engraving was executed by Master Engraver Alden George Ulrich who worked for Marlin from 1905 until 1919 before joining Winchester following in the footsteps of his father, Conrad Friedrich Ulrich Jr. who left Marlin in 1910. The serial number is on the left side of the upper tang and in the upper tang mortise of the stock.

Excellent, retaining 95% original blue finish with slide wear and thinning on the receiver tangs. The engraving is crisp and all of the gold and platinum inlays remain. The wood is also excellent with some minor handling marks, most of the original varnish remaining, overall crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. This is a beautiful example of a rare factory engraved, deluxe Model 27S rifle that will be hard to improve upon. You just don't find these handy rifles with this level of factory embellishment or in this high condition.