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Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action 44-40 Rifle with Cody Letter

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:600.00 USD Estimated At:1,600.00 - 2,500.00 USD
Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action 44-40 Rifle with Cody Letter
Manufactured in 1892, this particular example is a Third Model with the distinctive integral dust cover rail. The top of the barrel is marked with the two line address/King's Improvement patent dates ahead of the rear sight, "44 W.C.F." at the breech and "44 CAL." on the bottom of the brass cartridge elevator. The model designation is marked on the upper tang and the serial number on the lower tang. Standard blade front and adjustable rear buckhorn sights. Full magazine, all blue finish with casehardened hammer and lever, and mounted with a smooth forearm with iron end cap and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate, with compartment (cleaning rod not included). The accompanying Cody letter verifies the serial number, rifle configuration, 44 caliber, round barrel, plain trigger, that it was receiver in the warehouse on April 21, 1892 and shipped on August 18, 1892.
BBL: 24 inch round
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 44 WCF
Finish: blue
Grips:
Serial Number: 423287B
Condition: Fine. The metal surfaces retain 40% original blue with the balance a smooth brown patina. The wood has been freshened with a coat of varnish some time ago and remains very good with a shallow gouge on the right side of the forearm and overall some minor dents and dings. Mechanically fine. The markings remain clear and crisp.