Outstanding, Benchmark Antique Winchester Model 1894 Lever Action Rifle in Highly Desirable .38-55 W.C.F. with Factory Letter
An outstanding example of a standard configuration Winchester Model 1894 rifle, manufactured in 1895—only the second year of production. Chambered in desirable .38-55 W.C.F., this rifle features standard two-line barrel address and caliber markings, three-leaf express rear sight, dovetailed beaded front sight, and tang peep sight. The included factory letter confirms the rifle’s configuration and serial number application date of November 12, 1895, warehouse receipt on December 16, 1895, and shipment on February 20, 1896.
Notably, early 1894s like this were seen as utility guns and often subjected to hard use—making high-condition, standard configuration examples such as this exceedingly rare. More than 7.5 million Model 1894s were produced, yet only about a quarter of those prior to serial number 353,999 were chambered in .38-55. This rifle retains excellent condition, with smooth wood and crescent buttplate, and all period-correct features.
Exceptional overall condition, retaining over 97% of the brilliant original high-polish blue finish, 95% of the vivid case colors, and 98% of the original niter blue on the loading gate. The balance displays a smooth gray patina, concentrated primarily on the buttplate, with only the most minor, scattered surface marks along the upper left receiver edge. The select walnut stock and forearm remain excellent, showing only a few insignificant storage dings and faint handling marks. Mechanically flawless. This is unquestionably among the finest antique Model 1894 examples we have ever had the privilege to offer at auction.
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