Manufactured in 1935 and subsequently finished prior to 1976 presentation with standard Winchester markings including Winchester factory oval proofs on the barrel and receiver at the breech. The included letter from U.S. Repeating Arms certifies that the rifle was manufactured in 1935 and indicates that it was presented to a retiring Winchester employee in April of 1976. A letter dated 12 October 1988 from Mr. Walter M. Bellemore states that serial number 3 Model 71 was presented to him by W.E. Talley of Olin Corporation on 27 April 1976 at his retirement party. Mr. Bellemore also notes in the letter that he was told that this rifle had been in the reference collection of the Product Engineering Department of Olin Corp. prior to its presentation to him. Fitted with a ramped beaded blade front sight with hood, filler in the rear sight dovetail, and a bolt mounted peep sight. Mounted with a checkered forearm and pistol grip stock with a Winchester grip cap, sling swivel studs, and a checkered steel buttplate.

Very fine as finished by the factory at a later production time for employee presentation. 99% original bright high polish blue finish remains with the receiver and hammer showing an attractive plum hue, only the slightest handling marks, and some very light cycling wear on the hammer. The highly finished wood is also very fine and has a few scattered minor dings and scratches and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. A rare opportunity to add a single digit serial number Winchester rifle to your collection!