
Marlin Model 1881 32-40 24” Lever Action Rifle Factory Letter Antique 1887
SOLD FOR: $2,500.00
LSB#: WY241019DB059
Make: Marlin Firearms Co.
Model: 1881
Serial Number: 18229
Year of Manufacture: 1887-1888, Antique
Caliber: .32-40 Winchester Center Fire
Action Type: Lever Action, fed by a tubular magazine
Markings: The barrel is marked “MARLIN FIRE-ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN CT. U.S.A. 42,” along with patent details. The serial number is marked “18229” on the receiver.
Barrel Length: 24” Octagon
Sights / Optics: The rifle is fitted with a flip-up aperture tang sight at the rear, adjustable for precision shooting. The front sight is a fixed post in a globe dovetailed to the barrel.
Grip Configuration & Condition: The pistol-grip stock is checkered walnut, showing moderate handling wear with scattered light marks and scratches. The right side of the forend has a chip that was glued back into place. The mounting screw at the rear of the tang has been broken off and missing. The forend matches the stock in material and condition, retaining a good finish with signs of use. The grips rate in about good overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: Tubular magazine The magazine is in good condition, showing normal wear consistent with the age of the rifle.
Type of Finish: Blued / in the white
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright with well-defined rifling. There is light erosion and scattered pitting in the grooves. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 6/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 40% of its original blued finish. The balance of the finish displays moderate thinning, light patina, and areas of handling wear, consistent with its age and use. The magazine, receiver, and lever have all been stripped and polished in the white. There are small scratches, some oxidation spots, and handling marks throughout. The screw heads are lightly tooled but serviceable. The markings are sharp and legible. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lever action cycles smoothly. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with an original factory letter from the Cody Firearms Museum, verifying the serial number and production details, as well as a record of its shipment dates.
Our Assessment: This is a fine example of a Marlin Model 1881, a groundbreaking lever-action rifle that introduced high-powered cartridges to lever-action designs. Its antique status and inclusion of a factory letter enhance its collectibility. The rifle remains mechanically functional and visually striking, with its original configuration and vintage sights. This is a fantastic piece of firearms history, perfect for a collector or enthusiast. Please look at our high quality photos and good luck on your bids.-C.M.
