The included BATFE letter states that this short barreled rifle is exempt from the provisions of the National Firearms Act and Gun Control Act because it was manufactured in 1889 (thus a pre-1899 antique) and has been determined to be "primarily a collector's item and is note likely to be used as a weapon." It has a factory fitted 5 inch octagon barrel with no sights, cutaway magazine tube of corresponding length, two cutaways on the left side of the frame (one with glass window), a cutaway on the left side of the stock at the wrist, and bare butt. The barrel is marked with the two line address and patent information, the top of the frame is marked "MARLIN SAFETY" between foliate devices, and the left side of the upper tang and bottom of the action have the matching serial number. Collectors refer to these unique cutaways as "Salesman Samples," and they are highly sought after by Marlin Collectors!

Fine. 30% original nickel plating remains which is mostly in the protected areas, and the bare steel is mostly fairly bright and has some mild patination. The stock is very good and has several minor dings and marks from handling and storage. The action functions fine, and the markings are crisp. This is an extremely rare and interesting Marlin collectible.