079-0725-7513, Frontier modified Rare Winchester M-1873 Octagon barrel 1st Model in Open Top frame construction.  Less than 100 of these open top frame rifles are known to exist, and are in the 27xxx serial number range. It was made in 1877.  This gun is in that range and has a frontier constructed dust cover applied to the frame, the dust cover is so well done, it might have been done by a workman from the Winchester factory.  Since a close copy of this design was originally planned to be installed in Model 1866 rifles.  Extremely well done, the rear sight has been replace with an upgraded large buckhorn designed to be able to rapidly sight and find the target.  The forearm has been altered, either from damage or pommel wear.  It was then encased in decorated leather wrap, which about 50% remains.  The overall gun shows years of frontier use to both metal and stocks.  Clear markings and crisp edges.  Some moderate bumps and dings to the stock from years of carry.  Very good  wood to metal fit with a light coating of linseed oil applied long ago. This gun comes with a folder of documentation, identifying it as one of about 30 open tope 1st model Winchesters known to exist.  The gun went through an auction about 10 years ago and sold for about  $11,000 with premium.

 This gun was featured in the Winchester Arms Collectors Assn. Magazine in the fall of 1990. The article by Dave Yancosky talks about the known open top rifles and this gun is mentioned in the article:  “. . .  This design was much like the one used by S.G. Bayes on his patent gun for the dust cover for the model 1866.”  The article and photos come with this gun along with a list of the 29 exampled of open top 1st Model Winchester Model 1873’s.   

Antique, est. value:  $6000