This is a beautiful example of a very rare Winchester model 50/59 experiential semi-automatic shotgun, which was made in the very rare 20 gauge. The serial number of this shotgun (74993) indicates that it is actually a very late production, standard model 50 all steel shotgun receiver that has been fitted with an early/experiential model 59 lite-steel, fiberglass wrapped shotgun barrels. As noted this example was chambered in 20 gauge, which was produced only in the model 50 shotgun and never produced in the model 59 shotgun. Making this an extremely rare and probably a one of a kind shotgun. Both the model 50 and model 59 shotguns were early attempts by Winchester to produce a light-weight semi automatic shotgun in the early 1960s. The major difference was that the model 50 shotgun used an all steel receiver and barrel, while the model 59 used an aluminum receiver and fiberglass-wrapped lite steel barrel, with both having very limited production. In addition to the standard serial number on the underside of the receiver, it is also stamped with a second Winchester factory identification number, “EXP 0”, or experiential shotgun number “0”, clearly indicating that this specific shotgun was probably one of first, if not the first example to be produced with one of the experimental fiberglass wrapped barrels. This marking also supports the theory of why there is a model 59 barrel mounted on a model 50 action. In addition the consignor has stated (undocumented) that this specific shotgun was actually used on NILO Farm in Georgia, and was probably ordered at the behest of John Olin, himself which could also support the “EXP “markings. If you are not familiar with NILO farms, this was the private hunting farm of John Olin of the Winchester-Olin family, as established in 1952. The only markings on the barrel are a very light circled “WP” proof, which would be correct as they could not heavily stamp the fiberglass barrel. The barrel is also fitted with a single steel bead front sight, mounted on a short, square raised ramp. As noted the shotgun is chambered in 20 gauge, however it has a very open choke, akin to an open bore. It has the standard model 50 field grade stock and forend with checkered panels on the pistol grip area and both sides of the forend. The butt stock is fitted with a standard, checkered plastic, Winchester marked buttplate, with a 14 inch length of pull.

Excellent, overall with 99% of the original Winchester blacken, painted finish on the fiberglass wrapped barrel with 99% of the original Winchester blue finish on the receiver, both just showing minor handling marks. The stock and forend both have 98% of their original factory finishes with only minor handling marks or scratches from handling or maybe light use. Just an exceptional example of a very rare, experiential or transitional shotgun that is certainly worth doing more research on.