Lyman Centennial Ruger No 1 .45-70 Gov 28” Falling Block Rifle & Case
SOLD FOR: $2,225.00
LSB#: WY250210SM247
Make: Ruger
Model: No. 1, Lyman Centennial Rifle
Serial Number: 131-03060
Year of Manufacture: 1978
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Falling Block, Single Shot
Markings: The left side of the receiver is engraved “LYMAN CENTENNIAL RIFLE / 1878-1978 Centennial Edition II.” The Ruger crest is located on the receiver tang. The left side of the barrel is marked “STURM, RUGER & CO., INC., SOUTHPORT, CONN. U.S.A.” The top of the barrel reads “.45-70 GOVT.” The serial number “131-03060” is marked on the underside of the receiver. The top tang also bears Ruger’s safety selector marking. The brass medallion features the Lyman Centennial logo and dates “1878–1978.”
Barrel Length: 28”
Sights / Optics: A Century Model scope was included with this set but is not mounted.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The rifle is fitted with a checkered walnut buttstock and forearm. The wood has a rich gloss finish and displays sharp checkering. The stock shows minimal handling marks and retains its original recoil pad. There are light compression marks on the forend. The LOP measures 13.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the rubber buttpad. There are no chips, cracks, or losses. The stock rates in about Excellent overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: This is a single-shot rifle with no magazine.
Type of Finish: Blued receiver and barrel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore but there is light stubborn fouling throughout. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows only faint operational and handling wear. There are no major scratches, finish loss, or signs of misuse. The screw heads are sharp. The pins are clean. The markings are sharp. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is the original fitted green velvet-lined mahogany presentation case, a 3” bronze Lyman Centennial medallion, cleaning rod, AA Centennial die set, mould handles, mould block 457193, Century Model scope (not mounted), 20 Nickle plated unprimed cartridge cases, and Lyman Centennial journal.
Our Assessment: The Lyman Centennial Rifle is a beautifully crafted commemorative firearm celebrating Lyman’s 100-year anniversary from 1878 to 1978. Built on the reliable Ruger No. 1 single-shot falling block action and chambered in the powerful .45-70 Government cartridge, this rifle is both a capable shooter and an heirloom-grade collector’s item. The deep blued finish, finely checkered walnut, and brass highlights make it as visually striking as it is mechanically sound.
Only 1,000 of these commemorative sets were produced, and each was fitted into an elegant hardwood case with precision reloading tools and accessories, making it a complete historical ensemble. These rifles were not just meant to be admired—they were made to shoot, using top-tier Ruger engineering and Lyman’s loading expertise.
This example remains in exceptional condition and appears to have seen little use. Whether you’re a collector of commemoratives, a fan of Ruger falling block rifles, or someone who appreciates finely tuned black powder-era ballistics in a modern platform, this rifle is a standout investment. Please see our High Quality photos and good luck on your bids.C.M.
