May 28 & 29, 2020 Extraordinary, Sporting, & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/28/2020
1878 vintage Model 1876 "Short Rifle". 24" full round barrel. Full length magazine tube. Chambered in .45-60 cartridge. Plain straight grain walnut stock and forearm. Rifle style crescent buttplate with trapdoor. Complete with four piece sectional cleaning rod. Case hardened hammer and lever. German silver blade front sight. Fold down ladder rear barrel sight. Checkered oval "thumbprint" dust cover. Plain trigger. Winchester Museum letter documents configuration with note, "Changed to: 45/60 24" round barrel, plain trigger" "Received in warehouse on November 21,1879. Shipped from warehouse on March 29, 1880, order 19357". Apparently this rifle was pulled from the warehouse inventory and changed to a .45/60 with a 24" round barrel prior to original shipment. Possibly a special order? CONDITION: Excellent plus with 95-97% thinning original blue on barrel and magazine tube. 90-95% thinning original blue on frame. Strong case color on hammer. Lever is brown patina. Wood is excellent showing very little wear with added finish, possibly linseed oil. Bore is bright and clean. Action is tight and crisp. Likely a spurious inscription on bottom of brass elevator "William F Cody". This gun has been untouched in the consignors family since the 1920's. Overall a high condition Model 1876 in a scarce and desirable configuration. -MKS-