Marlin Model 1893 .32-40 Win 24″ Round Case Colored Rifle 1904 C&R

More Sold Lever Action Rifles

SOLD FOR: $2,819.69

LSB#: LSB260120GM003

Make: Marlin

Model: 1893

Serial Number: 293201

Year of Manufacture: 1904

Caliber: .32-40 Win.

Action Type: Lever Action Rifle with Full-Length Tubular Magazine

Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “MARLIN FIRE-ARMS CO. NEW-HAVEN, CT. U.S.A. / PATENTED OCT. 11. 1887. APRIL 2. 1889. AUG. 1. 1893” and “32-40” at the receiver. The left shoulder of the barrel is marked “SPECIAL SMOKELESS STEEL”. The top tang is marked “MODEL 1893”. The top of the receiver is marked “MARLIN SAFETY”. The bottom of the receiver is marked with the serial number “293201”.

Barrel Length: 24 Inch Round

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a German silver blade slotted to a base that is dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a u-notch semi-buckhorn elevator with riser. The dovetail for the rear sight is placed forward of the forearm cap and over the top of the barrel address. While this rear sight is an obvious replacement, the position of the dovetail indicates that the rifle may have been fitted for a scope from the factory and a rear sight added in the dovetail for the forward scope mount. The upper tang has two drilled, tapped, and filled holes for mounting a tang sight (not included). The top of the receiver has two drilled, tapped, and filled holes.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with a capped forearm, straight grip, straight comb, and a crescent steel buttplate. There are minor compressions and nicks throughout. The remaining finish on the stocks is exceptional, considering the gun’s age. The LOP measures 13 1/4 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are forward and rear sling loops. There are no chips or cracks. The stocks rate in about Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Blue & Case Colored

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mirror bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.75/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its current metal finish. The case coloring on the receiver, bolt, lever and buttplate has vivid colors and in exceptional condition for a rifle manufactured in 1904. There are spots along the top of the barrel that are turning to a brownish patina. There is very light wear with only minor finish thinning and minor handling marks on the barrel and buttplate. Some screw heads are lightly tooled but have strong slots. Overall, this rifle rates in a out Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly, and the trigger has a crisp and clean break. The hammer has a half-cock safety position. We have not fired this rifle, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with a notarized letter verifying the rifle’s history.

Our Assessment: The Marlin Model 1893 is one of the most respected early lever-action designs from Marlin Firearms Company, serving as the direct predecessor to the later Model 36 and ultimately the famed Model 336. Chambered in .32-40 Winchester (a classic target and hunting cartridge of the era) this 1904 example represents a high point in Marlin’s early smokeless powder rifle development, as evidenced by the “Special Smokeless Steel” barrel marking. These rifles were prized for their strength, accuracy, and smooth side-ejecting action, making them popular with hunters and target shooters alike in the early 20th century.

This particular rifle is an outstanding survivor, especially for its age. Retaining approximately 97% of its current metal finish, it features vivid and well-preserved case coloring on the receiver, lever, and bolt—an uncommon and highly desirable trait in rifles over a century old. The bore is exceptional, rating 9.75/10, with a mirror-bright appearance and sharp rifling, indicating minimal use and careful maintenance over its lifetime. The walnut stocks are in Fine condition, showing only minor handling marks while retaining strong original finish.

There are a few minor considerations, including light patina forming along the top of the barrel, lightly tooled screw heads, and a replaced rear sight positioned forward—possibly indicating period scope use. However, these do little to detract from the rifle’s overall appeal. Mechanically, the rifle functions correctly with a crisp trigger and proper half-cock safety.

Overall, this is a remarkably high-condition antique Marlin, combining excellent bore quality, strong original finish, and historical charm. With its desirable chambering, early manufacture date, and included provenance letter, it stands as a highly collectible example that would appeal to serious Marlin enthusiasts and collectors of fine early American sporting arms alike. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!