Manufactured in 1874 and subsequently master custom embellished in relief engraving sometime in the 20th century. The receiver is engraved with floral scroll designs with a punch dot background. There are two round panels on each side of the receiver with a ram on the left rear, a bugling elk on the left front, a bison on the right rear and a deer on the right front. The sides of the forend cap and buttplate tang are also engraved with the same floral scroll and punch dot design. The top barrel flat is marked with the two line address/King's improvement patent dates ahead of the rear sight, and the serial number is marked on the lower tang directly behind the trigger. Ahead of the barrel address is a faint etching "A. J. WILCOX FA, a masonic square and compass symbol and a (?)", and on the left upper flat directly below the address is "Masonic square and compass, three interlocked circles and VIRECY". The significance of these markings is unknown. Period sources showed a number of Wilcoxs in the Freemasons in the 19th century. Blue barrel and magazine tube, casehardened hammer and lever, and brass remaining parts. There is a sling swivel on the forend cap and buttstock. Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with buttstock compartment (cleaning rod not included).

Very good as master custom embellished. The barrel and magazine tube have a smooth mottled brown patina with some bright edge wear. The hammer shows much of the darkened original case colors. The lever has a smooth brown patina. The brass has an attractive aged patina. The wood is also very good with scattered minor dings, dents and scratches. The factory markings are clear, and the engraving remains crisp. The action is fine. A very nice example of a Winchester Model 1866 rifle with custom extraordinary relief engraving.