The Winchester Model 1873 is one of the most recognized lever-action designs in American firearms history, prized by collectors and shooters for its balance of function and vintage character. Below you’ll find an expert appraisal of a specific early example that pairs original finish with solid mechanics—information that matters when evaluating period firearms for both display and practical shooting.

WINCHESTER MODEL 1873

Overview

This listing is for a WINCHESTER MODEL 1873, Serial No. 12632, chambered in 44-40 with a 24″ round barrel and a full magazine. It presents as a nice, honest rifle with a strong period look and clear signs of careful use rather than heavy restoration. Price is listed at $14,500.99 for collectors and shooters seeking an early Winchester example.

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Condition and Notable Features

Metal and Finish

The barrel and magazine tube retain approximately 75% of their original blue, while the receiver shows roughly 85% original finish. Those percentages indicate a well-preserved firearm with honest wear patterns rather than heavy refinish. The hammer and lever retain traces of case coloring transitioning into a smooth brown patina—typical for pieces of this age.

Bore, Wood, and Tang

The bore is bright and shiny with strong rifling, a critical detail for anyone considering periodic shooting or assessment of long-term preservation. The stock retains about 90% of its original oil finish, with only slight handling marks. Note: the top of the tang is thinning and starting to turn, a factor to monitor for preservation and safe handling.

Caliber: 44-40 — Practical Notes

The 44-40 was a standard cowboy-era cartridge that balances moderate recoil with effective performance for close- to mid-range use. For a collector’s shooting piece, the 44-40 offers readily available brass and historically accurate ballistics suitable for cowboy action events or traditional range work.

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Value and Purchasing Considerations

This WINCHESTER MODEL 1873, Serial No. 12632, is a solid example that blends originality with functional condition—bright bore, strong rifling, and majority-original metal and wood finishes. At $14,500.99 it sits in the market range for early Winchester rifles with intact finish and mechanical integrity. Interested buyers can Check current availability and complete the purchase through the shop page linked above.

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