^Lot 34 Engraved Special Order Marlin Deluxe Model 1893 Lever Action Takedown Rifle

Engraved Special Order Marlin Deluxe Model 1893 Lever Action Takedown Rifle, #171893, .30-30 cal., 28'' blued half-octagon/half-round barrel with 1/2 magazine; finely checkered walnut forend and factory ''No. A'' pistol grip stock, ending with case hardened forend cap, takedown collar, and crescent buttplate. Special order Beach folding combination front sight and semi-buckhorn rear sight with elevator. With a period aperture sight at the upper tang. Grade No. 2 fine panel scene engraving to the color case hardened receiver is intricately engraved, likely by Conrad F. Ulrich, with game scenes depicting Whitetail bucks on both sides, surrounded by fine scroll patterns and border engraving. Additionally, there are scroll patterns on the color case hardened forend cap and takedown collar. Factory markings are clear, with a crisp barrel address, marked ''SPECIAL SMOKELESS STEEL'' on the left side of the barrel, and ''MARLIN SAFETY'' on top of the receiver. Mfg'd 1898. Rifle is in fine overall condition, retaining approx. 96%-97% toning finish on the barrel and magazine tube. Barrel shows light wear at the muzzle, with scattered light handling marks, minor scratches and freckles of patina. Receiver displays approx. 90% vivid color case hardened finish. There are light scratches and moderate finis wear to the loading gate. Additionally, there is a fine corresponding 1" scratch to the right side engraving behind the loading gate. There is some honest toning and wear on parts of the take down collar, lever, and buttplate; still case colors are strong in these areas and a majority remain. Wood is in fine condition, showing scattered mostly moderate indentations and scratches consistent with carry and use. Left side of the forend with a few larger impressions; checkering detail on both the stock and forend shows only a few spots of light wear and remains primarily crisp. Action is crisp and functions smoothly. Bore rates very good+ overall with defined rifling. An outstanding Model 1893. Est.: $15,000-$20,000. (Antique)