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RARE MARLIN 1/2 MAGAZINE MODEL 1888 LEVER ACTION

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:350.00 USD Estimated At:700.00 - 1,000.00 USD
RARE MARLIN 1/2 MAGAZINE MODEL 1888 LEVER ACTION

RIFLE.
Cal. 44 W. (44-40). S# 20586. Bbl. 24" octagon with brass blade in dovetailed base, factory elevator adjustable rear plus Lyman No. 1 tang sight marked :SM: (Savage, Mossberg and Meridian). Mfg. 1888 (approx. 4,800 made 1888-1889 in serial range 19560 to 27850) with top ejection and 1/2 magazine (only 78 made). No markings on tang. Case colored hammer, lever and buttplate. Caliber marking "44 W." because Marlin didn't want to credit Winchester by using "44 W.C.F.". Straight gripped stock with crescent buttplate and rifle capped forend. CONDITION: good general appearance with minimal finish; top of bolt best appearing. High point wear, scratches, marks, peppery oxidation and cleaned oxidation throughout. Only traces of case colors showing on hammer and lever; none on buttplate. Stock set appears to have original finish with many marks throughout and worn finish. Loading gate is finicky; smooth action operation. Tang sight good to very good with light, even finish loss. Good bore having distinct rifling with wear and even cleaned light pitting. PROVENANCE STATEMENT: Estate collection of Thomas F. Wolfinger. (01-22164/NW). ANTIQUE. $700-1,000.