Lot 24: Winchester 1873 Rifle 44-40 WCF

This is a fine example of a very scarce special order Winchester 1873, third model short rifle with a special order 20" barrel, in 44 caliber with plain trigger. This rifle is accompanied by a Winchester factory letter dated March 2008, that verifies the exact configuration of this rifle. This rifle was shipped in April 1888 under order number 6716. It is fitted with the standard blade front sight with a semi-buckhorn rear sight. The top of the barrel has the standard two- line address reading "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING-ARMS.NEW HAVEN.CT. / KING'S-IMPROVEMENT- PATENTED-MARCH 29. 1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860." with left side marked "44 W.C.F.". The upper tang is marked with the "Model 1873" markings with the serial number on the lower tang. It is fitted with a standard walnut straight grip stock with crescent buttplate and walnut forend.

Poor with an artificial dark brown patina finish on most of the metal surfaces with some areas of spotting and minor pitting on the center section of the barrel and right side of the receiver. The stock and forend are both in fair condition with numerous handling marks and light pressure dents overall from years of actual use. Mechanically the rifle is very good and hand cycles correctly, however the dust cover is lose.