The accompanying factory letter lists this Model 1889 with a 30 inch octagon barrel in .44 caliber, pistol grip stock and takedown configuration when shipped on May 24, 1895. Although not confirmed by the factory letter, the engraving and deluxe checkered pistol grip stock are most certainly factory. As noted Marlin expert William Brophy explained, "Unfortunately, the few remaining factory records do not, with any regularity, indicate if the gun was factory engraved or not." The accompanying Buffalo Bill Historical Center letter lists this Model 1889 as the last Model 1889 takedown rifle Marlin manufactured. An included copy of the factory ledger is also included. The top barrel flat is stamped "MARLIN FIRE - ARMS CO., NEW HAVEN, CT. U.S.A." above three patent dates ("PATENTED OCT. 11, 1887. APRIL. 2, 1889. AUGUST 1. 1893.") which are more commonly marked on Model 1893s. Model 1889s were generally stamped with only two patent dates: October 11, 1887 and April 2, 1889. The caliber designation "44 W." is stamped at the breech. The rifle is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and an elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight. "MARLIN SAFETY" is marked on top of the receiver, and the serial number is marked on the bottom of the receiver. The casehardened receiver is engraved with nice floral scrollwork, bordering and a game scene in a circular panel depicting a buck in a wooded scene in the center of the left side. Mounted on an extra fancy multi-point checkered walnut forearm and pistol grip stock. The buttstock is fitted with a casehardened crescent buttplate. Factory engraved Model 1889s are rare with high condition examples like this one being even rarer.

Excellent plus, near new, retaining 99% original blue finish with some thinning to brown. 99% vibrant original case colors remain on the receiver, hammer, takedown collar, lever and buttplate. The engraving is crisp. The wood is also excellent plus with minimal minor handling marks, crisp checkering and most of the original finish remaining. Mechanically excellent. This choice condition, factory engraved, last production Model 1889 takedown rifle is must have for any serious Marlin collector! This rifle would be impossible to improve upon!