Good morning Tom,

Based on the serial number the rifle was manufactured during 1899.  It is 100% original and I doubt it has ever been “taken down” in its life.  There is not the least hint of a scratch to the bluing at the magazine retaining band.  The stamp styles and locations are correct for the SN range of the gun.  I would suspect that the bore is most likely perfect because it does not look like the rifle has been used much.  It is just 117 years old.  The bluing is pretty much gone from the receiver and the balance haas turned to the typical brown patina often seen.  This will keep the “condition hounds” from having an interest in the rifle but there are still lots of guys who would like it.  It should be a very accurate shooting rifle.  I would not go beyond $3000 for it and start thinking hard above $2500.  

Michael