94 Winchester Export Model?

Russell40

I purchased a like new in the box Winchester 94 SRC with a 16 & 1/4 inch barrel. The rifle has a serial number of 49536XX. The wood has a very nice grain to it and shows some figure. The caliber is 30-30. What has me puzzled are the extra proof marks on the bottom of the frame just behind the serial number. The markings are as follows: A crown with an N over it, "IC" and what appears to be an antler or branch. The barrel also has the crown with the "N" over it on the left side just forward of the receiver. All of the markings appear to be factory as they have the same blue over them as the complete rifle. I purchased the rifle at an estate sale ($300.00) and it still had the factory tag on the lever. There are no special markings on the barrel that would denote a special rifle or limited production item.
For what counrty was it supposed to be shipped too and what would be its current value? I cant locate any information in the Blue Book.
Thanks!
Russell40

rufe-snow

The proof marks you describe appear to be from West Germany. The "antler" is the marking used by the proof facility in the city of Ulm. The letters "IC" represent the year the firearm went through proof, in this case 1982.

Since your Model 94 was produced by Winchester during the late 70's early 80's time frame, it must have been taken or shipped to West Germany shortly thereafter. It's a requirement over there to have commercial firearms proof tested prior to sale or use. I doubt very seriously that the proofing was done at the Winchester plant in Conn., rather then in Germany. The proof marks must have been "touched up" after proof, if there is blue in them.