Lot 44: Custom Engraved Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1888, this Third Model 1873 rifle was subsequently custom embellished. Blued with gold washed receiver. The sides of the receiver feature a scroll and punch dot engraved motif which continues on the game scene engraved side plates. The left side plate has a stag and the right side plate has a peacock. A heart border motif is featured on the frame sides, around the hammer, and on the chamber. The upper tang is marked "MODEL 1873" with the serial number on the lower tang and "32 CAL" on the brass cartridge elevator. Blade front and buckhorn rear sights on a barrel marked with the two line address/patent dates marking (partially visible) and a restamped "32 WCF". Full length magazine with custom nicely figured checkered walnut forearm and straight grip stock with forend cap and crescent buttplate.

Near mint as custom embellished and refinished. The rifle retains all of the blue finish with some minor spotting (mostly on the magazine). The receiver retains almost all of the gold wash. There is some finished over minor pitting (more extensive on the buttplate). The wood has a few minor handling marks with crisp checkering overall. Mechanically fine.