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WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS COMPANY -
.50-110 EXPRESS
UNPRIMED CARTRIDGE CASES FOR THE MODEL 1886 RIFLE – RARE
OFFERING WITH THE EARLY FORMAT GREEN LABEL:
This is a box of twenty-five “.50-110 MODEL 1886
WINCHESTER EXPRESS UNPRIMED SHELLS”, a new cartridge
developed for the Model 1886 Winchester Rifle.
Of special note, this box bears the rare ca. 1880’s
green label. Giles and Shuey note that this label style
includes the ca. 1880’s text line “These Shells can
be reloaded many times.” Given that this caliber
wasn’t introduced until 1887, the authors suggest this
style of box and labeling was a very early – “probably
the first” – packaging of the .50-110 cartridges.
The box contains the original 25 .50-110 Express
cartridge cases and all have the proper Winchester
headstamp.
The two piece square cornered box is complete, and while
showing the effects of age and handling, it is still
full form with the original top and bottom sections
intact. The top label is worn as can be seen in the
photos below, to include a missing corner which was
restored at some time in the past. The majority of the
label is legible, to include all of the critical caliber
information. The one side label (the only side label
these boxes had) is intact and full form, and while
darkened with age and soiling, it is still legible.
The box retains its shape with sharp edges, and is
overall very solid. All of the seams and edges are
intact, however some of the edges show old, well
executed repairs.
In spite of the evidence of age
and wear, this is a very rare and very desirable
Winchester cartridge case offering, and it would be
difficult to find another of this vintage in any
condition. No question, this box will display nicely
with your 1886 rifle. (0414) $475
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