Manufactured prior to 1898 in desirable 45-70 caliber. It has German silver blade, elevation adjustable and tang peep sights, a top barrel flat marked with the two-line address/patent date information ahead of the rear sight and "45-70" and the top of the frame is marked "MARLIN SAFETY." The barrel lacks the special smokeless steel marking, indicating that the rifle is early production for black powder cartridges.

Fine. The barrel and magazine retain 30% plus original blue finish with the balance a smooth brown patina. The remaining metal surfaces retain strong patterns of original case colors. The reoiled wood is very good showing some scattered minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent.