when I came across the winchester 94, 30-30, unfired, serial # put it at 1956, I speculate that A local family brought it in to the closest gunshop, after the owner passed away.
Found it in a closet, where it had been for many decades.
LGS probably gave them $450, then put it on the rack for $900.00
Since Ive been a good customer for ten years or so, they dropped the price to $825.
I went down the road to another LGS and was offered $1000, told them no way,
They said if I went over to the Saturday morning gunshow in nearby Somerset that I could easily get $1500.
Told them I wouldnt take $5000.
who knows what would happen on gunbroker,
But this is more then just an old lever rifle, I was born in 1956, same as the winchester, It will never be fired.
And will go to my Son and Grandson one day.
Back in the late 70s/early 80s, my sisters ex husband stole my Father and Grandfathers firearm collection.
My Grandfather was born in 1893 and had some priceless firearms.
I now have one to pass down, hopefully it will stay in the family.
Ive been looking for this rifle for many years, planned on settling with a worn but functional version, and was giving up hope.
Then a new one dropped in my lap that morning, when I walked in the LGS just to drop off farm eggs.
And the rifle caught the corner of my eye when I turned to walk out.