Manufactured in 1946 and subsequently lavishly engraved and gold inlaid at the shop of Kurt Jaeger in Mainz, Germany. The wonderfully executed engraving starts with a small band at the muzzle, a fully engraved forend cap with contrasting gold wire inlaid borders, and then a full 6 3/4 inch wedge extending from the breech to just forward of the rear sight on the barrel. The Winchester markings are still complete. The full coverage scroll engraving on the receiver has intricate gold inlaid borders, subtle crosshatched shading, and incredibly detailed small animal scenes of a squirrel, hare, and a fox, all in lustrous raised relief gold inlay. The wood is just as impressive as the metal, as is to be expected from a master craftsman, with attractive grain, rich color, bold figure, and sharp checkering. Fitted with a fixed blade front sight, an elevation adjustable rear notch sight, and an engraved blue steel buttplate. Jaeger gained notoriety and popularity especially with American servicemen during the post-war occupation of Germany and was heavily involved with the Weisbaden Rod & Gun Club of the American Air Force.
Exceptionally fine as custom embellished. 99% of the polished blue finish remains with just a few light handling marks overall. The engraving is sharp and the gold inlays are complete and lustrous. The wood is very fine with crisp checkering, a small blemish on the left side of the buttstock, and small traces of light dings. Mechanically excellent.
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