This is a scarce example of a case colored frame Winchester Model 1873 Rifle that was manufactured in 1883. This Third Model rifle has the distinctive integral dust cover guide rail and dust cover with serrated edges. The rifle has a casehardened receiver, forearm cap, loading lever, hammer and crescent buttplate. The barrel and magazine tube are blued. The barrel is fitted with a Beach combination front sight with brass blade and iron post and a sporting rear sight. A Lyman folding combination tang sight with coarsely knurled post is mounted on the upper receiver tang. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped with the two line legend: "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING ARMS. NEW HAVEN.CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29.1866. OCTOBER 16.1860" ahead of the rear sight. The designation: "38 CAL." is stamped on the top barrel flat between the rear sight and the receiver. "38 CAL" is inscribed on the bottom of the cartridge elevator. The serial number, "149800A" is stamped on the lower receiver tang behind the loading lever latch. The walnut stock and forearm have a varnished finish.

Fine. The barrel and magazine retain approximately 30% of the faded original blue finish; the balance has a plum brown patina. The barrel edges are sharp and markings are crisp. Wear is limited to a small nick in the left flat. The casehardened receiver, hammer, loading lever, buttplate and forearm cap have aged to a silver-brown patina. The receiver and loading lever retain significant amounts of the original case colors in protected areas. The buttplate has a darker patina with smooth finish. The stock and forearm are both in fine condition. About 80% of the original varnish finish is present and there is only very minor handling. This is a very good example of a scarce Model 1873 Rifle with special order casehardened receiver and special order front and tang sights.