Intended to be a sales companion to the Model 1881, the Model 1888 was developed in response to the popularity of Winchester and Colt's pistol-caliber repeating rifles and carbines. While the 1888 was a solid design, Marlin's desire to distinguish itself from the competition resulted in the side-ejecting Model 1889, which would establish the signature Marlin configuration and condemn the 1888 to a two-year production run, with less than 5000 made total. This example was made in 1888, just over 100 off from the lowest identified serial number. Blade front and sporting rear sights on the barrel with the two line address and 1887 patent dates and the "44 W" caliber marking, and a mid-range peep sight on the tang. The receiver is fitted with a niter blue loading gate and extractor, with a casehardened lever and hammer. Smooth straight wrist stock, with a casehardened forearm cap and a steel buttplate.

Very fine, with 80% plus of the bright original high polish blue finish, showing some bright edge wear. A few of thin scratches are present on the frame with a few small scuffs on the barrel and magazine near the muzzle. The case colors remain 60% intact. The nitre blue on the loading gate is bright and 70% intact. The stock is also very fine, with the forearm cap sitting a bit proud against the wood and a number of storage dings and scuffs on the buttstock. Mechanically excellent.