December 16, 17, & 18, 2025 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/16/2025
This fabulous, signed Conrad Ulrich exhibition quality factory engraved and well published 3rd model rifle was manufactured in 1871. The blued rifle length octagon barrel is marked towards the breech with the second style 2-line address. Drift adjustable German silver blade front sight and ladder rear. The gilt finished brass frame is signed on the left side of the upper tang with three of Conrad Ulrich's discreet boxed "C.F. ULRICH" touch marks. The highly detailed engraving is very imaginative and a lovely representation of his work, some of most intricate found on a Winchester. The left side features a unique central panel depicting a leaf clad native family, their child unfortunately caught in the jaws of a ferocious crocodile. The forward scalloped panel has a buck and doe in a wooded scene. These panels are surrounded by arabesque scroll in which the engraver has cleverly integrated two gentlemen, one with a Winchester rifle, as well as saddled horse. The central panel on the right side features a pair of hunting dogs taking down a buck with the approaching hunter, rifle in hand, in the background. Just as on the left side, the forward vignette is also of a buck and doe. The scroll which surrounds the panel scenes also include striking Western animal vignettes of a charging bison, standing grizzly bear, and skulking cougar. It is known several Ulrich engraved rifles of this quality were showcased at the 1876 Centennial Exposition, and it is surmised that this rifle, given its level of intricacy and unique engraving patterns, was also likely a factory exhibition piece. The lower tang is marked with an "OXX" special order and wood grade stamp. The attractive flame grain walnut butt stock has a faint assembly number stamped in the channel which reads "60[??]". Stock is outfitted with a sling swivel, a forward sling swivel also present on the engraved nose cap. The engraved brass crescent butt plate is numbered "8555" on the inside of the toe. Tool trap includes a 4-piece brass tipped steel cleaning rod. Publications featuring this rifle include pages 86 and 90 of "The Winchester Book" by George Madis and page 111 of "Winchester Engraving" by R.L. Wilson. CONDITION: Good, showing honest, heavy use. The barrel retains strong portions of faded blue mixing with some added finish for a rich and attractive chocolate patina. Strong traces of gilding are retained in the protected areas of the frame and nose cap, the balance displaying a even mellow bronze patina. Brass shows scattered nicks and wear. Two of the side plate screws have been bushed long ago to tighten them up after heavy use. Several screw heads are marred. Loading gate blue has largely faded to patina. Forend has some added finish and scattered nicks, along with repaired split on the left side. Stock fits somewhat shyly to the tang and has a stabilized spilt at the toe. Some impressions are scattered throughout with a few deeper nicks on the right side. It wears a pleasant older refinish. Dark, abraded bore. Fine mechanics. Cleaning rod is fine. It is clear this gun was well loved and well used for many years. An exceptional and well know masterwork by leading Winchester engraver Conrad Ulrich which truly captures the imagination.
Caliber/Bore
.44 Henry Rimfire