Lot 18: Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle

Manufactured in 1876 as a third model with the serial number stamped in block numerals behind the trigger. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line address/King's improvement patent dates ahead of the rear sight. It has a dovetailed blade front sight, a folding ladder rear sight graduated to 900 yards and sling swivels mounted on the forend cap and underside of the buttstock. The rifle has an all nickel finish. Mounted on a smooth forearm and straight grip stock fitted with a brass crescent buttplate with compartment. The four piece cleaning rod is included. The Winchester Model 1866 has earned itself a noted place in American western history. Thousands were carried to the Great Plains and beyond by intrepid American pioneers and were relied upon for defense and hunting. The '66 secured Winchester's place in the annals of the West and launched a long line of successful Winchester lever actions that remain popular to this day and still retain the basic form of the '66.

Fine with period retailer plating. The rifle retains 50% of the nickel finish with the balance a smooth gray patina. The exposed brass has an untouched aged patina, and some chipping around a couple frame screws. The sanded wood is good with a minor crack on the forearm, a couple small missing chips and a hairline crack near the tangs, some filled blemishes and some chipping along the grain. Mechanically excellent.