This is a very fine original example of a post-WWI era Winchester Model 1897 Trench Gun. This shotgun falls into the end of the noted serial number range for post WWI military issue Model 1897 Trench Gun. It has the correct WWI style solid frame receiver, six-hole handguard/heat shield with the bayonet lug on the front end with a high comb stock. The left side of the barrel is marked with the standard, two-line Winchester patent and address markings followed by "12 GA." with "CYL" stamped in front of the receiver. The top of the barrel and receiver both have a single Winchester "WP" proof stamped. The bayonet lug is correctly marked on the left side with: "PAT. JAN 15 & MAR.19.1918". The pump handle slide bar is marked in three lines: "MODEL 1897/-WINCHESTER-/TRADE MARK REG. IN U.S. PAT.OFF". It is fitted with a standard commercial walnut stock and pump handle. The stock has the early high comb and a smooth hard rubber buttplate with the Winchester logo in the center of the buttplate with no proofs or cartouches. The pump handle and stock both have a light varnish finish. The serial number (E678887) is stamped on the underside of the receiver. This late production trench shotgun is not "U.S." marked or proofed which was the case for most of these later trench guns. This beautiful example is complete with an unmarked leather sling and a Winchester made British P14 bayonet and leather scabbard. The bayonet is stamped "1913/9w16" with a British broad arrow proof on the opposite side.

Very fine with 85% plus of the blue finish overall with honest wear on the edges and high spots, the front end of the heat shield/bayonet lug area and underside of the receiver area. The stock and slide handle both are in very fine condition with a nice matching dark brown walnut color overall showing only minor handling marks on the sides. Mechanically excellent. The bayonet has been reparkerized and the steel scabbard tip and throat have been painted green. A very nice example of a early post WWI Winchester trench gun.