Marlin Model 1888 Lever Action Top Eject Rifle

lovethemcolts

Hello Folks!

I have a Marlin Model 1888 in 32-20 caliber. Serial number 23xxx. In 90% plus condition All original. I bought it from a friend for 100.00. The gentleman who sold it to me is in his 50's and was either his Great grandfathers or Grandfathers gun. From what he could remember his family bought it brand new in late 1889. Too bad their is not more information/forums on the model 1888 as I have searched the web for hours. Any other useful information would be appreciated. Thank you. Mike

rufe-snow

If none of our folks can help? You might consider posting to the Marlin collectors site, at this URL.


http://www.marlin-collectors.com/forum/index.php

Bert H.

Hello Mike,

The Marlin Model 1888 is a relatively scarce rifle. Less than 5,000 of them were ever manufactured, and only in the years 1888-1889. It was quickly replaced by the more common Model 1889 (with its side ejection).

If you would like to know exactly when it was made, contact the Cody Firearms Musuem and purchase a factory letter ($60 for non-members).

Unlike Winchester, there is not a whole lot of reference material written about the early Marlins. Brophy's book is the only one I can think of off the top of my head - http://www.marlinfirearms.com/Store/Category.aspx?category=BooksAndArt&

At only $100, you absolutely stole it from the gentleman you bought it from[V]. If it is truely in 90%+ condition, it is worth a minumum of 20X what you paid for it. I myself do not collect Marlin's, but I have several very good friends who do. If you can post (or send me) a series of clear well lit pictures, I can get you an idea of what it is actually worth.

You did not mention what the barrel configuration is (full octagon, 1/2 octagon, or full round), and that information will definitely have an affect on the collector value.

lovethemcolts

Hello and thank you for the reply.

The Marlin is a 24" Octagon Barrel.

I'm Going to attempt to add some pictures here.

Again, I thank you for your time.
Mike

Bert H.

Hello Mike,

The pictures are on the dark side. Can you reshoot them in natural (outdoor) lighting? If so, use a neutral colored background (medium grey, light blue, or light medium green).

lovethemcolts

Hope this helps.

Not Much Natural Light even outside here in IceBox Michigan.
I'm even usuing a 8.2 mega pixels Kodak Camera.

If the pictures are still bad, I can attempt perhaps tomorrow with more sunshine.
Mike.

Bert H.

Hello Mike,

The last two pictures give me a better idea of the actual graded condition (and it is a long way from being 90+%). Based on what I can see, the graded condition is NRA Antique "Very Good+". Still, it is a desirable and valuable old rifle. It is likely worth at least $1,000, and possibly as much as 50% more to the "right" collector.

ruger41

nice marlin[:D] I own both Winchesters(older and newer) & Marlin's but no older Marlins yet. I sure love the firearms that came out from 1860 to 1900.

lovethemcolts

Thank you so much for your time and comments.

I like the gun very much and have considered just keeping it as I do not own anything else from this era.

Until next time. [:)]
Mike