September 20th 2015 Premier Firearms Sale
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/19/2015
Caliber is 45-75 WCF with a 28" barrel. According to the factory research this rifle was shipped on August 8, 1877. This is an octagon barrel rifle with plain trigger. It is one of the earliest known surviving rifles of this model extant. Introduced at the Philadelphia Centennial Exhibition it is commonly referred to today as the Centennial rifle. This example is a true Centennial rifle that is was produced the first month or two of standard production. It exhibits all of early features such as the open top frame which was manufactured without the dust cover. The caliber is a 45-75 WCF and it is not marked on either the barrel or brass lifter. Winchester did not feel it necessary as this was the only caliber available when introduced. This rifle represents Winchesters entrance into the big bore rifle production utilizing the basic design of the popular model 1873 rifle. This also represents the genesis of the large caliber dangerous game lever action repeating firearm. Amazingly this rifle has survived in all original configuration. The barrel has a light salt and pepper patina overall and the barrel markings are no longer visible. The full magazine tube is in like condition as is the frame. The walnut stocks are excellent and proud to metal, and still retain the majority of their finish. There is some slight grain separation at the bottom of the forestock at frame. The butt stock is a bit shy to the metal at plate. Fine original screw heads. There is a closed hairline 1" crack at right side of wrist . Perfect working order. Extremely sharp rifling with typical frosting. This rifle exhibits a great look and given the hard use of these early models it is truly amazing that it has survived at all.