This is an early production Model 1894 Winchester rifle. Pre-1898 Antique Serial number is in the 10,000 range....circa 1895/96.  Standard 26" octagon barrel, full magazine, and crescent rifle buttplate.  Standard sights include Semi-Buckhorn rear and front sight w/German silver blade.  "38-55" caliber marking is located behind the rear sight.  All correct markings include the earliest style 2 line Winchester address on the top barrel flat and maker/model/patent dates located on the upper tang.  Hammer has the early type knurling with dipped border. 

Overall condition grades to NRA Antique Fine with 60% original blue on the frame with some spots of patina mixed in and traces of fire blue on the loading port.  Hammer shows 65% case colors....with hints of colors towards the top of the finger lever.  Top of bolt and upper tang are mostly light grey/brown patina with some spots of minor corrosion and light pitting...most likely coming from blood stains on a hunter's hands.  Barrel and magazine tube have 70-75% fading original blue.  Nice markings and near excellent screws throughout.  The wood is in fine condition.

Item# 8603

SOLD