1894 Winchester with 3 digit serial number

[Inusuit]

A local museum asked for help evaluating a donated collection of 32 Model 1894 and Model 94 rifles and carbines.

The alleged "gem" of the collection is a .38-55 with a three digit serial number. However, the finger lever link, the breech bolt, and carrier are obvious replacements. The rest of the rifle (26 inch round barrel) would grade very good antique standards with even brown patina, clear and sharp markings. Wood also very good with minor dings and wear, no missing wood or bruises. No remaining blue even in protected areas. The donor claims the rifle was appraised at $6000.

How much do the replaced parts detract from collector value?

 

[Ivan the Butcher]

The NRA rules say at least one grade. But it depends on how long ago on replacement! Does the gun look original or like a box of parts walking in unison? $6000 (US), not for some time yet! 6000 Yen or Dong or Marks, sure!

Ivan

 

[Inusuit]

Thanks for your thoughts.

The rifle has an even patina. There was no attempt to blend the added blued parts to match the receiver and lever. Certainly not a period replacement On display, the replaced parts will not be on view.

 

[bigolddave]

Seems to be an extra zero, but what the heck, costs the museum nothing, and only the taxpayers get screwed (although spread over all of us, it's not too bad).

 

[s&wchad]

First model 1894’s have the cartridge guide rail screw heads visible on the outside of the receiver. It’s most obvious on the right side, slightly behind and above the loading gate. The screws were installed from the inside after a few thousand were produced.

These do bring a substantial premium and 5-6K is not unheard of for a desirable 1894. Condition is a major factor and I’m not sure how you can determine that parts were replaced. Post some good photos and we’ll go from there.

 

[Charlie Foxtrott]

6 K is a bit of a stretch for the gun that you describe.

By at least half due to the parts replaced and the condition. The early date is one thing, but condition and originality is what determines value.

Without pictures it is really difficult to say what it might be worth. But I do have some experience with regard to Winchester model 94s.

These model 1894s currently reside above the fireplace in my living room. I own more of them as well.

 

[Inusuit]

First model 1894’s have the cartridge guide rail screw heads visible on the outside of the receiver. It’s most obvious on the right side, slightly behind and above the loading gate. The screws were installed from the inside after a few thousand were produced.

These do bring a substantial premium and 5-6K is not unheard of for a desirable 1894. Condition is a major factor and I’m not sure how you can determine that parts were replaced. Post some good photos and we’ll go from there.

Cody Firearms Museum confirmed the serial number in the 300 range was made in the third month of production.

The replaced parts are blued whereas the receiver, barrel, magazine tube have an even brown patina. There was no attempt to blend the new parts, so they are obvious.

I will ask the museum for pictures.

Thanks to all who offered information.

 

[Inusuit]

Seems to be an extra zero, but what the heck, costs the museum nothing, and only the taxpayers get screwed (although spread over all of us, it's not too bad).

No one got screwed. The entire collection was donated.

 

[LoboGunLeather]

No one got screwed. The entire collection was donated.

Exactly. The purposes of the valuation are (1) providing the donor with a letter acknowledging donations of a certain value to be used for IRS tax filings, and (2) providing the museum with documentation in support of any possible insurance claim.

With just about any vintage or antique firearm there is no single "value"'; rather there is a range to be expected in the event of a sale. Citing a valuation at the top end of the range of value is not cheating anyone.

 

[H Richard]

Insurance values are "Replacement Cost" value. Normally and often much higher than acquisition cost.

 

[bigolddave]

If you paid attention, I stated the taxpayers got screwed. That is us, an overvalued donation claimed for tax purposes increases the burden on the rest of of us, although only an accountant who is a little anal about such things would notice.

 

[Inusuit]

I so understand what you're saying. On the other hand, the entire collection is now available for viewing by the thousands of taxpayers who visit the museum every year. I say it's a win.