Manufactured in 1897, the first year of production and featuring a seldom encountered factory engraving. The receiver is finely engraved with scroll patterns with a scroll border. In addition there is a round panel on the left side with a squirrel in a wooded scene. The half octagon barrel is fitted with a combination Beach front sight and elevation adjustable rear sight and is marked with the legend that ends with the 1892 patent date. The engraved upper tang is marked "MODEL/1897" and has a folding peep sight. The top of the receiver is marked "MARLIN SAFETY." The highly figured pistol grip stock features checkering and a hard rubber Marlin buttplate. Comes with a July 1915 Marlin catalog

Very good plus. The barrel and magazine tube retain 40% original blue finish with the balance a smooth gray patina. The remaining surfaces retain 30% original case colors. The refinished wood is very good with a repair at the toe, couple short hairline stress cracks at the tangs, recut checkering and scattered minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent.