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August 4, 2025
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I have what I believe to Winchester Model 1897 WW1 trench gun manufactured in 1918. Any help with pricing, etc. would be extremely helpful. Here are the specs and photos:
Flaming bomb
U.S stamp
1918 patent on the bayonet lug
S/N 691507
Finish: 75-85%
Fully functional
6-row heat shield
Bluing intact under heat shield
Missing two screws on the bayonet lug
February 17, 2022
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I am not a knowledgeable trench gun collector, but I have to ask, is the US and flaming bomb in the correct spot? I thought they were on the bottom of the receiver right side at the loading port.
August 4, 2025
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It is on the right side of the receiver in front of the ejection port. According to American Rifleman, that is correct. https://www.americanrifleman.org/content/the-trench-gun-in-world-war-i/
December 31, 2012
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A little nicer one went for over $8,000 recently on Jack the Dogs website. They are just about worth their weight in gold if US marked and 100% correct. I had a minty one I sold for $13,500. Big Larry
April 15, 2005
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The WW I Trench Guns (when marked) were ordnance stamped exactly like your gun. Per the factory records, it was manufactured in June 1918. It has the correct patent marked heat shield. Overall, the gun is reasonable condition. I suspect that it would bring $5,000 in a well attended auction.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
December 9, 2002
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Pretty hard to find all original and authentic. IMO!
I like seeing it!
Thanks for sharing! 
Anthony
August 4, 2025
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Thanks, gentlemen. Is spending the $88 for the Winchester Factory Letter worth it?
April 15, 2005
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tradecraft said
Thanks, gentlemen. Is spending the $88 for the Winchester Factory Letter worth it?
It is not possible to letter your Model 1897 Trench Gun. CFM Factory letters can only be provided for serial numbers < 378000.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
August 4, 2025
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Thanks for letting me know.
February 17, 2022
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oldcrankyyankee said
I am not a knowledgeable trench gun collector, but I have to ask, is the US and flaming bomb in the correct spot? I thought they were on the bottom of the receiver right side at the loading port.
Sorry, but I have to apologize for my earlier question. It appears I was looking at a model 12 TG when I asked this.
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