GUN FALL 2017
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/31/2017
WINCHESTER 1ST MODEL 1873 RIFLE WITH VERNIER TANG SIGHT AND FACTORY LETTER.WINCHESTER18731210544WCFCal. 44 WCF. 24" rnd bbl, full magazine, blue finish, long staff vernier tang sight, straight grain American walnut stocks with steel crescent buttplate. Bbl shows 2-line Winchester address in front of rear sight. Sights are standard for this model. Dust cover has correct oval thumbprint. SN appears on lower tang behind lever latch. Tang sight was not removed. Accompanying this rifle is a Cody Firearms Museum letter showing shipment on March 9, 1876 to Order Number 5543. The letter is addressed to noted collector Les Quick. PROVENANCE: The collection of Tim Zissler. CONDITION: Fine. Bbl retains 40% blue that is bright in protected areas and worn to a smooth grey/brown patina on the top. Magazine tube is also a smooth blue/grey patina with traces of bright blue. Bbl address is sharp. Sights are very good. Bore is bright with sharp rifling. Receiver shows 40-50% bright blue blending to a plum/brown patina. Striation marks are visible overall. Dust cover is a smooth plum/blue patina. Thumbprint has sharp checkering. Elevator is a mottled mustard patina with a couple of slight dents. Hammer shows a generous amount of case color. Lever is a grey/brown patina overall. SN is sharp. Tang sight is very good. Mechanics crisp. Lever retaining spring needs adjustment. Steel buttplate has a mottled silver/grey patina. Forend cap shows 60% bright blue. Stocks are fine, full sized with only slight handling marks overall. Any opportunity to purchase a 1st Model 73 rifle that was once in the collection of noted Winchester authority, Les Quick. 52471-12 TEP (5,000-8,000)