Winchester Model 23 Golden Quail Matched Pair 12 GA & 20 GA SxS Shotgun

SOLD FOR: $9,000.00

LSB#: LSB250512SG125 (12 GA) & LSB250512SG130 (20 GA)
 

Make: Winchester

Model: 23 Golden Quail, Matched Pair, Number 393 of 500

Serial Number: GQ-393E

Year of Manufacture: 1986

Gauge: 12 Gauge and 20 Gauge, both 2 ¾” Shells

Action Type: Side by Side Top Break with Ejectors and Single Selective Trigger

Markings:
Both shotguns share the same serial number and commemorative markings, indicating they are a factory-matched set, number 393 of only 500 made in each gauge. The left barrel of each gun is marked with “WINCHESTER Golden Quail – [Gauge] – 2 ¾” – 70mm / EAST ALTON IL. U.S.A.”, while the right barrel is marked “MADE IN JAPAN”. The top of each rib is marked “Golden Quail”. The barrel flats and water tables show correct Winchester proofs, gauge and choke markings, and serial number suffixes. The bottom of each receiver reads “ONE OF 500 / GOLDEN QUAIL”, and both feature full scroll engraving around game scenes of quail and hunting dogs, with a gold embossed quail head on the receiver bottom.

Barrel Length: 25 1/2” (both)

Choke:

• 12 GA: Left – Improved Modified, Right – Improved Cylinder (Fixed)
• 20 GA: Left – Modified, Right – Improved Cylinder (Fixed) 

Sights / Optics: White bead at the front of a solid rib, with wavy serrations to reduce glare (both)

Weight:

• 12 GA: 6 lb., 11.4 oz.
• 20 GA: 6 lb., 8.7 oz.

Stock Configuration & Condition:
Both shotguns are stocked with select walnut, finely checkered, featuring beavertail forends, straight grips, and straight combs. Both have orange rubber Winchester recoil pads. Each shows minor handling marks and faint stains at the rear of the forearms. Checkering remains sharp, with no chips or cracks. The LOP on each is 14 1/4” to the pad and 13 7/8” to the wood. Drops are approximately 1 3/8″ at the comb and 2 1/4″ at the heel with a neutral cast. The rubber pads show minor age hardening and light wear. Overall, the stocks rate in Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Blue & Coin

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition:
Both bores are bright with no erosion. In this writer’s opinion, they rate 10/10.

Overall Condition:
Each shotgun retains about 98% of its original metal finish. There are a few minor handling marks, mostly around the muzzles, and some standard operational marks. The markings are sharp, the engraving is crisp, and the screw heads are clean. Both guns are in Excellent condition.

Mechanics:
Both actions function correctly with automatic safety engagement and mechanical single triggers. Ejectors function as designed, and the barrels lock up tight to their respective receivers. We have not test fired either shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories:

• 12 GA: Comes in a fur-lined hard case.
• 20 GA: Comes in a Winchester-branded leather hard case.

Our Assessment:
This is a true collector’s find—a matched pair of Winchester Model 23 Golden Quail shotguns, both number 393 of only 500 produced in their respective gauges. The Golden Quail series was released between 1984 and 1987, with each year dedicated to a different gauge (12, 20, 28, and .410). Built in Japan to Winchester’s specifications, these are considered among the last great side-by-sides from the company, prized for their elegant lines, fine engraving, and field-ready functionality. Both shotguns feature fixed chokes, beautifully figured wood, and top-tier fit and finish. The fact that these two share the same serial number makes them even more desirable—a matched pair like this is rarely offered and highly sought after by Winchester collectors and upland hunters alike. Whether you’re building a legacy collection or planning your next walk behind pointing dogs, this set represents a rare opportunity. Good luck and happy bidding!