April 11-13, 2023 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/11/2023
Engraved Winchester Third Model 1866 lever action carbine built by Winchester Repeating Arms Company in 1874. Blued 20" round barrel with full magazine, marked with Winchester address and King's Improvement, pinned blade front sight, and later style graduated rear flip sight with caliber marking worn off. Gun has original rimfire bolt and has not been changed to centerfire. Brass receiver with scroll floral engraving with dotted border and raised carved deer in circle on both left and right-side panels. Steel saddle ring and serial numbered in block stamped numbers on lower tang. Upper tang is stamped with "JU" on left under wood possibly indicating engraving was done by John Ulrich? Madis states a large portion of 66's were factory engraved prior to serial number 125000. Engraving is of quality and in style of Ulrich's, but not the quality of some of the signed examples of his work. Original walnut carbine style forearm with period replacement stock with original brass buttplate and steel forearm band. Stock is well worn, but functional, with a repair that was made a very long time ago. Comes with consignor research letter with information he has obtained on justification of factory engraving. CONDITION: Metal has worn to a silvery patina with areas of pitting. Brass has aged uncleaned appearance with handling wear, engraving wear matching usage. Wood has heavy usage marks with period replaced buttstock and forearm with a replaced 2" section on left side; added coat of linseed oil. Good bore for a 66 of this age with good functioning mechanics.