Lot #15
Lot #17

Lot 16: Winchester 1866 Carbine 44 CF

Engraved, Retailer Inscribed, Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Carbine

Auction Location: Rock Island, IL

Auction Date: December 4, 2015

Lot 16: Winchester 1866 Carbine 44 CF

Engraved, Retailer Inscribed, Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Carbine

Auction Location: Rock Island, IL

Auction Date: December 4, 2015

Estimated Price: $5,500 - $8,500

Engraved, Retailer Inscribed, Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Carbine

Manufacturer: Winchester
Model: 1866
Type: Carbine
Gauge: 44 CF
Barrel: 20 inch round
Finish: blue/gold
Grip:
Stock: walnut
Item Views: 3801
Serial Number:
Catalog Page: 18
Class: Antique
Description:

The top of the receiver is inscribed "ADOLFO BERINN EN LIMA", and the left side has an intertwined "ES" monogram. While the specific relevant individuals have eluded identification, this carbine may have been purchased by a Chilean or Peruvian officer. During the War of the Pacific (1879-1884), Chilean forces occupied Lima from 1881 to 1883, but faced continued insurgent attacks. The only visible factory marking is an "M" on the left side of the lower tang. The receiver flares to meet the forearm and has the slightly curved frame of the Fourth Model, suggesting the serial number was obliterated when the lower tang was engraved and places the date of manufacture between 1878 and 1898. If used during the above conflict, this weapon would have been very advantageous for its owner given that most of the soldiers opposing the Chileans were issued single shot weapons; the small, ill equipped Bolivian forces were even using flintlock muskets. The Chilean forces also primarily had single shot weapons though the cavalry is known to have had some Winchester and Spencer carbines. Perhaps this carbine was engraved in celebration of capturing the city. The barrel has inlaid bands at the muzzle and breech. Aside from the barrel, nearly all of the iron and "gunmetal" surfaces have floral scroll and punch dot engraving. The left side of the receiver has a buck jumping a log. It has a checkered walnut forearm and straight grip stock with large cheekpiece and trapdoor compartment.

Rating Definition:

Very good as custom retailer engraved, refinished, and altered for centerfire cartridges. The iron surfaces have a brown patina while the remaining components have an aged patina and remnants of gold plating. The period custom wood is about good with some scrapes, dings, and gouges, a repair on the right side of the forearm, some red marks and mostly crisp checkering. The action functions fine.



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