This an exceptional original example of a factory engraved Winchester Model 1866 lever action rifle that was manufactured in 1869. The rifle features style two engraving with open panels on both side plates and scrollwork on the forearm cap and buttplate heel. The engraving on the receiver features flowing scrollwork on a punch-dot background. The engraving was executed in the style by Conrad and used by John Ulrich although the receiver engraving lacks the borders typically associated with the Ulrichs' work. The initials "JF" are neatly engraved on the lower left side of the tang immediately behind the edge of the receiver. These initials may be the engraver's signature. The stock and forearm are "XX" fancy grain walnut with a high polish piano finish. The lower left side of the receiver is stamped "B" followed by "O X X". The barrel and magazine are blued, and the hammer, lever and trigger are color casehardened. The rifle has a full octagon barrel and full length magazine. The barrel is fitted with a Beach style folding combination globe and post front sight and a fixed leaf rear sight in the barrel dovetail. The rear sight is a period addition. A folding peep rear sight is mounted on the receiver tang. Factory sling swivels are fitted to the forearm cap and stock. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped: "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29. 1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860." in two lines ahead of the rear sight. The serial number "38058" is stamped on the lower tang and enclosed in a hand engraved banner. The upper tang inlet of the stock is stamped with the partial serial number "8058".

Extremely fine. The rifle retains 80% of the original blue. The blue finish on the barrel and magazine has some high point wear with traces of thinning on contact points. The bolt and loading gate retain significant amounts of the blue finish. The hammer, trigger and lever have most of the soft case colors intact. The brass forearm cap, receiver and buttplate have a very attractive, untouched patina. The deeply cut and flawlessly executed engraving is crisp. The barrel legend is sharp. The highly figured, fancy grain walnut stock and forearm are in very fine condition; nearly all of the high polish pianos finish remains. Wear is limited to a few scattered and very insignificant handling marks. This is a magnificent example of a factory engraved Winchester Model 1866 lever action rifle.