Very Scarce Vietnam Era U.S. Winchester 1200 Trench Shotgun w/ Bayonet C&R
SOLD FOR: $4425
WOA#: WY230918RD001
Make: Winchester
Model: 1200
Serial Number: 428504
Year of Manufacture: 1968
Gauge: 12 Gauge 2 3/4″ Chamber
Action Type: Pump / Slide Action, Tube Magazine Fed Shotgun
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “U.S. / WINCHESTER MODEL 1200 – 12 GA. 2 3/4 CHAM. / MADE IN NEW HAVEN, CONN. U.S.A. WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL / CYL.”, the top-rear has an ovalled “WP” proof. The bottom-front of the receiver is marked “428504 / U.S.”. The left of the bayonet lug has a drawing number.
Barrel Length: 20”
Choke: Cylinder Bore, Fixed
Sights / Optics: There is a bead mounted to the front of the bayonet mount. The barrel is NOT drilled for a bead underneath.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two piece walnut set with extended slide handle, semi-pistol grip, straight comb, checkered Winchester buttplate, and a sling plate inlet to the belly (the other swivel is mounted to the bayonet mount). The stocks are dull with age and wear. There is a dull lacquer or brown paint type finish painted onto the stocks. The LOP measures 14″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stocks are in about Very Good condition as refinished. There are no visible chips or cracks. There are a few compression marks and small nicks.
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 95% of its current metal finish. There are some scattered minor scrapes and scuffs, and thinning at some edges. The Park job is pretty rough and slightly “bubbled” in some parts. The pin heads are unmarred. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. Most markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in about Very Good-condition as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: The installed bayonet lug/handguard is included. The heat shield has six rows of holes (29, 28, 29, 29, 28, 29 holes, respectively). This shotgun also includes its bayonet and scabbard. The bayonet and scabbard are still sealed in their respective GI packaging.
Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 1200 Trench Shotgun is a piece of military history, emblematic of the changing landscape of combat in the twentieth century. The Model 1200 began production in 1964 but the first military contracted shotguns were commissioned in early 1968 with the serial numbers starting at 400,000. These Model 1200 Trench Guns were designed to meet the robust needs of the U.S. military during a time of significant conflict. This particular shotgun, with a serial number of 428504 and U.S. markings on the barrel and receiver, not only confirms its production as part of its military contract but also marks it as a genuine piece from this era, distinguished by its provenance.
The inclusion of the bayonet and its original scabbard—still sealed in USGI (United States Government Issue) packaging—elevates its status to a collector’s item of rare significance. Historically, the trench shotgun was a versatile tool in close-quarters combat, providing troops with a powerful weapon in the tight confines of trench warfare. These Model 1200s were designed for reliability and durability, with a capacity to withstand the rigors of combat use and the harsh conditions of the field.
This shotgun not only offers a tangible connection to the past but also possesses the lasting utility that could appeal to both historical enthusiasts and practical users alike. Coming complete with its military accessories, ensures that it stands out as a sought-after item, not only for its functional design and effectiveness but also as a legacy of the era it represents, making it a unique and treasured acquisition for any serious collector or history aficionado. Please see our photos and good luck! -L.S.
