Exceptional Early Production Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine with Desirable Henry Patent Marked Barrel

Description:
A highly desirable early-production Winchester Model 1866 Saddle Ring Carbine, manufactured in 1868, this exceptional Second Model example offers the kind of originality, frontier history, and collector appeal that make the “Yellow Boy” one of the most iconic firearms of the American West.

• Standout example of the famed Winchester Model 1866 Saddle Ring Carbine variation
• Manufactured in 1868, placing it among early-production Model 1866 carbines
• Especially desirable due to its early Henry patent barrel marking:
  • “HENRY’S PATENT-OCT. 16. 1860 / KING’S PATENT-MARCH 29. 1866”
• Barrel address is correctly stamped between the rear barrel band and rear sight
• Retains its original rimfire configuration
  • Many Model 1866s were later converted to centerfire for newer cartridges, making original rimfire examples especially appealing to collectors
• Historically significant Western Frontier firearm
  • The Model 1866 is often cited as one of the “guns that won the west”
  • Carried by settlers, Native Americans, outlaws, lawmen, cowboys, and ranchers
  • Highly valued in the American West for durability and rapid firepower
  • Its rate of fire was nearly unmatched among long guns of the period
• Rare high-condition survivor
  • As a true “frontier issued” arm, most examples saw heavy use
  • High-condition Model 1866 carbines are difficult to encounter today
  • Early-production examples are especially scarce and desirable
• Second Model configuration
  • Features the more gradual drop at the rear of the receiver compared to the First Model
  • Equipped with a single upper tang screw
  • Second Models are found in the 15,000–25,000 serial number range
• Matching serial number appears in all noted locations:
  • Left side of the lower tang
  • Stock inlet
  • Buttplate
• Classic saddle ring carbine setup
  • Saddle ring mounted on the left side of the brass receiver
  • Strong Western appeal and historically correct carbine profile
• Sight configuration:
  • Blade front sight integral to the front barrel band
  • Two-leaf rear sight
• Furniture and finish details:
  • Plain walnut forearm and straight-grip stock
  • Attractive grain pattern in the walnut
  • Brass receiver, iconic to the Model 1866 “Yellow Boy”
  • Trapdoor brass crescent buttplate
• Cleaning rod is not included

This early Second Model Winchester 1866 Saddle Ring Carbine combines frontier provenance, original rimfire configuration, matching-number components, and the coveted Henry and King’s patent barrel marking—qualities that make it well deserving of placement in a finest-quality Winchester or Old West collection.

Condition

Exceptionally fine, retaining 75% plus original blue finish with smooth brown patina on the balance. The exceptional original brass components have a highly attractive mellow appearance. 70% bright original nitre blue remains on the loading gate. The nickel plated lever retains 95% original finish. The hammer retains 85% original muted case colors. The wood is excellent with some handing marks and nearly all original varnish remaining. Mechanically excellent. An outstanding example of an early production, Henry patent marked Winchester Model 1866 lever action saddle ring carbine.

Rifle Caliber: .44 Henry
Manufacturer: Winchester
Model: 1866
Serial Number: 16446
Barrel Length: 20 inch round
Bore Info: The bore is shiny with a few small patches of spotting and distinct rifling.

Price: $49,999.99