Manufactured in 1942. The shotgun has the takedown frame, low comb stock and six hole handguard/bayonet lug that are characteristic of most WWII Model 1897 Trench Guns. The rear lower left side of the receiver is marked with "U.S." followed by the ordnance bomb, the left rear of the barrel is marked "MODEL 97 - WINCHESTER - 12 GA./-TRADE MARK-" followed by "2 3/4 CHAM./CYL.", the top of the barrel at the breech is marked with the ordnance bomb and the Winchester oval proof, and the two line address/patent dates are on the right rear. The date of manufacture "42" (1942) is stamped on the underside. The Winchester oval proof is also marked on the top of the receiver at the breech. Mounted with an 18 groove forearm and highly figured oil finish walnut pistol grip stock with "GHD" and crossed cannon cartouches, and a checkered hard rubber Winchester buttplate. Complete with a tan leather Boyt sling.

Excellent with 98% plus original blue finish remaining showing some light cycling wear on the magazine, as well as a few minor scratches. The highly figured oil finish walnut wood remains excellent with a few minor dents and handling marks. Mechanically excellent. The sling is fine with some stains and age cracking. One of the best we have seen.