Offered here is a highly attractive factory engraved Savage Model 99F rifle, manufactured c. 1957-1960 according to approximate serial numbers and correlating lever boss codes shown on the production chart on page 135 of the book "A Collector's Guide to the Savage 99 Rifle" (2016) by David Royal. This example, serial number 928917, is consecutively serialized with the previous lot, 928916, which is a nearly identical factory engraved example, although chambered in a different caliber. Serial number 928916 is depicted in various pictures on pages 265-266 of "Savage Model 1895, 1899 & 99 Rifles, Volume 2 Engraved and Special-Feature Models" (2022) by David Royal, in which the nearly identical factory engraving is noted as performed by Siegfried Rentzschke. The Model 99F was the first Savage rifle to have the model letter designation stamped on the barrel. Features engraved floral scroll patterns on the sides of the receiver, which appears to be the work of engraver Ziggie Rentzke, who came from Germany after World War II and gained employment at Savage around 1956 or 1957, according to information provided in the factory letter of the mentioned consecutively serial numbered example also in this auction (this example does not include a factory letter). A small lever boss code "11L" in an oval is stamped on the front of the lever pivot area. Fitted with a ramped beaded blade front sight and elevator adjustable rear notch sight, the Savage Arms Chicopee Falls, Massachusetts address marked on top of the barrel with "308 WIN." on the upper left chamber area and "MODEL-99F" on the upper right, jeweled bolt, loaded chamber indicator on top, cartridge counter on the left of the receiver, and right handed thumb safety. Mounted on a checkered forearm and checkered pistol grip stock with a hard rubber grip cap and serrated steel buttplate. Provenance: The David Royal Collection

Exceptionally fine, retains 95% original blue finish, 60% case colors on the lever, strongest in protected areas, scattered freckling concentrated on the bolt and lever, with sharp engraving. Wood is very fine, with fitment slightly off around the wrist area showing a gap visible at the lower frame juncture, a few light handling marks and crisp crudely cut checkering otherwise. Mechanically excellent.