Manufactured and imported into the United States from 1879 to 1884 by the Winchester Repeating Arms Co. Winchester believed that the U.S. market did not have an ample supply of fine sporting shotguns, to remedy this they bought 10,000 shotguns in five grades A, B, C, D, and Match to be sold at their New York store. These gun were manufactured by a small group of English master gunsmiths and exhibited the highest quality of craftsmanship available. This gun is one of only two known to exist in 20 gauge as confirmed in correspondence between consignor and DeWitt Bailey, author of "English Gunmakers: The Birmingham and Provincial Gun Trade in the 18th and 19th Century" as well as information provided by Ronald W. Stadt, author of "Winchester Shotguns and Shotshells". Damascus steel barrels with concave solid rib marked "WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS Co (Match Gun) NEW HAVEN CONN. U.S.A". The action, hammers, tangs, and release lever show fine scroll engraving. The locks are marked "WINCHESTER REPEATING/ARMS Co/Match Gun" and feature the same scroll engraving as well as a hound on the left and two quail on the left. "WRA&Co" monogram on the under side of the trigger guard. Multi-point checkered, walnut splinter forend with engraved fittings and round knob pistol grip stock with blank inscription shield and horn buttplate. Included are the above mentioned letters as well as a large amount of consignor research. Bore and stock measurements (R/L): chambers measured at 2 1/2 inches with extractor; bores 9 inches from the breech both proved at "19" (.626 inches) and measure at .635/.636 inches; choke constriction .003/.017 inches; minimum wall thickness .026/.030 inches; 1 3/4 inch drop at comb; 3 inch drop at heel; 14 1/8 inch length of pull; weight 6 lbs 1 oz.

Very good, showing an attractive mix of brown and grey patina across all of the metal surfaces with some evidence of cleaned surface oxidation and flashes of case colors in the protected areas. The markings and engraving are all clearly legible. The wood is fine, with a few dings and scratches, some mild insect damage to the buttplate, and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.