This rifle manufactured in late 1898. The top barrel is marked "MARLIN FIRE-ARMS CO. NEW-HAVEN, CT. U.S.A. / PATENTED. OCT. 11. 1887, APRIL 2. 1889, AUG. 1, 1893." ahead of the rear sight and "45-90" at the breech, with "SPECIAL SMOKELESS STEEL" on the upper left flat. The top of the receiver is marked "MARLIN SAFETY". The left side of the receiver is engraved with a dog chasing a deer in an oval panel flanked by floral scroll and punch dot engraving, and with a double scallop border. The right side has an intertwined "JS" in a circle, scalloped borders and simple scroll on the bolt. The breech end barrel flats have a wedge of simple scroll engraving. Folding globe front, adjustable buck horn rear and tang mounted short range peep sights. Blue barrel and magazine with casehardened remaining parts, and mounted with a checkered walnut forearm with iron end cap and pistol grip stock with crescent buttplate. Blue barrel assembly with the remaining surfaces casehardened. Mounted with a checkered forearm and pistol grip stock with a crescent steel buttplate.

Very good. The barrel and magazine tube retain 50% original thin blue finish mixed with smooth brown patina. There is a small dent in the bottom of the magazine tube near the muzzle and 9" back of the muzzle it appears that a sling swivel base was mounted. The 2 1/2" area is bright and two holes have been drilled. The remaining surfaces have a smooth mottled gray patina with hints of faded original case colors in protected areas. There is a hole on the belly of the re-varnished stock where a sling swivel stud was at one time. The wrist was broken and period repaired with nails. Overall the checkering shows moderate to heavy wear and there are a few scattered minor dings and scratches. The markings and engraving are clear. The action is excellent.