How much is myWinchester 38-55 gun worth?

Question

I have a 1894 model Winchester in 38-55 caliber with original saddle clips, ring tang sights, flip up peep sight (adjustible) serial numer of 456891.

Answer 1

Value of that Winchester is going to be totally dependent on what a collector opines the actual condition to be. Very often, buyer and seller will disagree on the definition of actual condition, which can make a big difference in the actual value of the gun. Plus, there’s a lot more that needs to be known about your specific gun before a fair market value can be determined.

Placing an accurate value on collector’s guns in today’s market is very difficult. Gun prices are generally rising, overall, and the Blue Book values are lagging behind the market by at least six months. To get a more realistic view of current prices, check out www.gunbroker.com, www.auctionarms.com, and www.gunsamerica.com to see what’s selling. Keep in mind that what you see there is asking prices, and not actually what the firearms selling for, but it will give you some ideas.

Answer 2

It is difficult to appraise a firearm without seeing it.  The 1894 Winchester does command some collector's interest and currently this model is out of production with Winchester.  Your's sounds like a more desirable model for collectors but value depends largely on how original it is, conditions and history.  If you wanted to sell it real fast $600 to a thousand US dollars would probably be a fair asking price.  For insurance purposes I'd say between $1,500 & $2,000.  If this were my Winchester I would NOT sell it.  Consider keeping it. I went ahead and checked the date of manufacture for you.  According to your serial number your 1894 .38-55 Winchester was made in:  1908.

Good luck.

H