This rare factory-engraved Deluxe Marlin Model 1897 Lever Action Rifle, manufactured around 1900, is chambered for .22 Short, Long, and Long Rifle and fitted with a 24-inch half-octagon barrel and full-length magazine. The receiver is finely engraved with flowing scrollwork and a decorative curly-line border, highlighted by a round panel depicting a buck in a wooded scene on the left side. Additional appointments include a folding globe front sight, short-range tang peep sight, checkered forearm, and pistol-grip walnut stock with a checkered hard-rubber Marlin buttplate.
The rifle remains in very fine condition, with the barrel retaining approximately 95% of its original blue finish, the magazine retaining approximately 75%, and the receiver displaying approximately 60% original casehardened colors with an attractive silver-gray patina on the balance. The walnut remains fine with age-appropriate handling marks and wear to the checkering, while the action is described as mechanically excellent. With its factory engraving, deluxe checkered walnut, desirable half-octagon barrel, and high degree of remaining original finish, this is a particularly attractive and seldom-seen example of the Marlin Model 1897.
This rare factory-engraved Deluxe Marlin Model 1897 Lever Action Rifle, manufactured around 1900, is chambered for .22 Short, Long, and Long Rifle and fitted with a 24-inch half-octagon barrel and full-length magazine. The receiver is finely engraved with flowing scrollwork and a decorative curly-line border, highlighted by a round panel depicting a buck in a wooded scene on the left side. Additional appointments include a folding globe front sight, short-range tang peep sight, checkered forearm, and pistol-grip walnut stock with a checkered hard-rubber Marlin buttplate.
The rifle remains in very fine condition, with the barrel retaining approximately 95% of its original blue finish, the magazine retaining approximately 75%, and the receiver displaying approximately 60% original casehardened colors with an attractive silver-gray patina on the balance. The walnut remains fine with age-appropriate handling marks and wear to the checkering, while the action is described as mechanically excellent. With its factory engraving, deluxe checkered walnut, desirable half-octagon barrel, and high degree of remaining original finish, this is a particularly attractive and seldom-seen example of the Marlin Model 1897.