Manufactured in 1918, this exceptional Winchester Model 1897 trench shotgun falls into the approximate known prime serial range E613000-E705000 of World War I era military issued shotguns, per page 50 of "Combat Shotguns" (2007) by Bruce Canfield. The Winchester 1897 was one of John Browning's many contributions to American sporting and combat arms, and in both the "trench" and "riot" configurations performed fine service for military and law enforcement users, seeing action as early as 1899 in the Philippines, and earning particular fame in World War I and World War II for it's potent close range firepower. Single bead sight on the bayonet lug, with a six-hole heat shield over the barrel, cylinder choke, and a 2 3/4 inch chamber. "U.S." above a flaming bomb stamped on the right of the receiver ahead of the chamber. Fitted with an 18-groove forearm and a smooth pistol grip stock with a checkered Winchester buttplate. Includes a period leather sling and a Winchester M1917 bayonet with green leather scabbard. Length of pull 13 1/2 inches. Provenance: The George Moller Collection; Private Collection

Very fine, retaining 85% plus bright original blue finish, extensive scattered flecks of pitting visible on the receiver, and mild handling evidence. The stock has a chip at the heel, otherwise, the wood is very fine with minor scratches. Mechanically excellent. Refinished bayonet is fine, scabbard is very good. One would have to look a long time to find a World War I 1897 trench shotgun as fine as this example!