Manufactured in 1887, this is a fine example of an antique, special ordered, Winchester Model 1873 rifle. The included factory letter lists the rifle in .38 caliber with a half octagon barrel, plain trigger, and casehardened finish when received at the warehouse on 4 October 1887 and shipped the same day in order number 23516. Winchester historian and author George Madis does not list the rarity of casehardened finishes, which are not uncommon on deluxe Model 1873s, but are comparatively more scarce in the context of total production. The top of the barrel is marked with the standard two-line address and King's patent marking, as well as the caliber marking at the breech. The caliber marking is repeated on the bottom of the cartridge elevator. The model marking is on the upper tang and the serial is marked on the lower tang. It is fitted with a "Rocky Mountain" blade front sight and an elevation adjustable No. 22 notch rear sight. It is mounted with a nicely figured, smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a trapdoor crescent buttplate containing an included four-piece steel cleaning rod.

Very fine, retains 75% of the original blue finish, 60% of the vibrant original case colors, and 50% of the original nitre blue on the loading gate with the balance having mostly thinned to a smooth grey patina with a few scattered small patches of very light surface spotting. The refinished wood is fine with some scattered minor dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent. A very fine example of a special ordered, non-deluxe, casehardened Winchester Model 1873 rifle that would be a nice addition to your collection!