(N) SCARCE AND FUN TO SHOOT LOW SERIAL NUMBER MARLIN

This early Marlin "potato digger" comes on a brass tripod with World War II era mounting nut. Marked on top of receiver as well as on matching barrel “MARLIN ARMS CORPORATION NEW HAVEN, CONNECTICUT CAL-30 U.S.A.”. Parts appear to be matching throughout. Marlin Rockwell took over the manufacturing rights to the Colt Model 1914 "digger" from Colt in 1916, and began producing this improved design in 1917. The sliding door on the right side which gives easier access to the action is an immediate telltale sign of a Marlin digger. PROVENANCE: The Class III weapons formerly on loan to Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum. CONDITION: Overall finish and appearance is very good with about 50% coverage mostly on the barrel and top of receiver with thinning of finish a pleasing gray and brown patina on both sides of the receiver. Wooden hand grip has some very light dings and remains attractive. Tripod retains 90% of its dark green paint on steel metal surfaces with the remainder retaining about 60% coverage with handsome bare brass otherwise revealed. Wooden hardware is complete and serviceable with no cracks and retains about 5% of its green paint. Mechanics are fine and action is very smooth on this digger with a clean gas port. Bore is extremely fine, shiny and bright with strong rifling. Bolt face is extremely fine. The digger is a lot of fun to shoot and this specimen would be a great addition to the collection of a World War I enthusiast who wants to shoot their guns as well as display them. THIS IS A NATIONAL FIREARMS ACT ITEM AND REQUIRES BATF APPROVAL PRIOR TO TRANSFER. THIS ITEM IS FULLY TRANSFERABLE ON AN ATF FORM 3 OR 4 AS CURIO AND RELIC ELIGIBLE. JWK 2020-05-080 This is not a standard shippable item and will require 3rd party shipping or pickup arrangements to be made. Accessories: Tripod Barrel Length: 28" Caliber/Bore: .30-06 Springfield FFL Status: NFA Manufacturer: Marlin Model: 1897 Serial Number: 348