Very fine, large frame, Third Model, Winchester Model 1876 (the Centennial Model) lever action rifle s/n 57937, manufactured circa1885, with 28 inch octagonal barrel, full magazine,  straight walnut stock and forend, with crescent butt-plate. Chambered in obsolete 40-60 WCF calibre.    

The two line address on the top flat of the barrel reads “ WINCHESTER’S REPEATING ARMS NEW HAVEN CONN. U.S.A. / – KING’S IMPROVEMENT PATENTED MARCH 29.1866 OCTOBER 16. 1860 – ”, with “ 40-60 ” calibre markings on the breech end of the top flat of the barrel. The calibre marking “ 40-60 ” are also engraved on the brass cartridge lifter. The serial number “57937” is present on the bottom tang behind the lever. The top tang behind the hammer is marked “ MODEL 1876” within finials.

Overall an attractive “76” in very fine condition with approx. 60% plus original blue to barrel, receiver, dust cover and butt-plate with approx. 40% case colours to the hammer and lever. Very good woodwork with very nice wood graining to the stock and forend. Bright 10/10 bore with strong rifling and good working action.

The .40-60 WCF cartridge was introduced in 1884. It was designed for North American big game hunting, using a necked-down case firing a 210-grain bullet propelled by 60 grains of black powder.  

A very fine condition “76” with desirable octagonal barrel that shows very little use. This rifle would grace any American or Winchester rifle collection.