Help on an old Winchester rifle

Question

Have a friend who has an old rifle and I'm trying to help find out some details about it!

It is a Winchester model 1873, octagon barrel, 44-40 cal (we think), lever action with a serial number of 62773. It's in really good shape and we are looking for details like year built, how many made like it, approx value ect. Also trying to verify by serial number if it is in fact a 44-40. Thanks

Answer 1

Check here for information...>> icollector.com, gunbroker.com, auctionarms.com, gunsamerica.com...

Answer 2

The year of manufacture for serial number 62773 is  1880. The caliber markings should be on the brass follower on the bottomside in front of the lever. Open up the trap in the butt plate and see if there is a cleaning rod. If it has no trap in the butt plate it's not a 44-40 or 38-40. It would be a 32-20. If it doesn't load from the side then it's a 22 caliber.

Answer 3

Try this website to start with. You may be able to ask about your particular serial number and get more info.

http://www.gun-data.com/winchester_73.ht...

Answer 4

According to your serial number your 1873 Winchester was manufactured in 1883. It was available in .44-40 caliber so that may be the caliber of your rifle.  

Value depends on many factors.  It is difficult to appraise a firearm's value without seeing it.  That it is all original is critical as is that it be in good working conditions. History is also important.  Winchesters command considerable collector's interest so it is probably at least a thousand dollars.  

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