Winchester 94AE Thomas County Commemorative 9 of 10 45 Colt Lever Rifle
SOLD FOR: $1,200
WOA#: WY231122CB029
Make: Winchester
Model: 94AE Thomas County 175th Anniversary Commemorative Rifle, 9 of 10
Serial Number: 6402281
Year of Manufacture: Modern
Caliber: 45 Colt
Action Type: Lever Action Rifle with Angle Eject and Tubular Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “WINCHESTER MODEL 94AE CAL. 45 COLT / -MADE IN NEW HAVEN, CONN. U.S.A. – WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL-”. The top of the barrel bears the Winchester proof mark. The bottom of the receiver is marked with the serial number, “COPYRIGHT / S.B.R. ETCHINGS 2000”. The upper tang is marked “THOMAS COUNTY”. The bolt is marked “9 of 10”. The left side of the forearm is marked “THOMAS COUNTY”. The right side of the forearm is marked “GEORGIA”. The left side of the buttstock has a beautiful carving of the Georgia Northern Railroad train with “THOMAS COUNTY / ESTABLISHED DECEMBER 23. 1825”. The left side of the receiver is marked “ATLANTIC & GULF RAILROAD”, “OCHLOCKNEE LIGHT INFANTRY”, “ORIGINAL WINTER RESORT OF THE SOUTH”, “THOMAS COUNTY RANGERS”, “THOMAS COUNTY / COOLIDGE / OCHLOCKNEE / PAVO / MERRILLVILLE / DAWESVILLE / THOMASVILLE / BOSTON / METCALF / 175TH ANNIVERSARY”. The right side of the receiver is marked “175 years”, “THOMASVILLE GUARDS”, “THIGPEN TRAIL”, “175 YEARS”, “THOMAS COUNTY / GEORGIA”, “LOWER CREEK INDIANS”, “DIXIE BOYS”. Both stocks are are decoratively carved.
Barrel Length: 20″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a U-notch elevator sight with a white triangle aim guide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are engraved walnut with a banded forearm, straight grip, straight comb, and a checkered hard rubber Winchester buttplate. The buttstock has some scratches. There are no chips or cracks. The screwheads on the buttbad are heavily corroded. The LOP measures 13.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the checkered hard rubber Winchester plate. The stocks rate in about Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue with 24 Karat Decorated Steel Receiver, Lever, Barrel Bands, Trigger.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp and deep. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows handling marks. The gold plating is bright and beautiful for the most part. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. However, there is heavy corrosion on the upper tang that has completely defaced the engraving. The hammer has heavy corrosion as well. There is some light scuffing throughout. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Winchester 94AE Thomas County 175th Anniversary Rifle is a highly collectible and limited edition firearm, commemorating a significant milestone in Thomas County’s history. With only 10 units produced, each rifle in this series represents a rare piece of craftsmanship and a unique blend of history and artistry in firearms manufacturing.
The Model 94AE (Angle Eject) itself is a variant of the legendary Winchester Model 94, a rifle renowned for its role in the American West and its lasting impact on lever-action rifle design. The 94AE variant features an angle ejection mechanism, which allows the spent cartridges to be ejected at an angle, making it more convenient for shooters who wish to use scopes. This design update adds a modern touch to the classic lever-action style, enhancing its functionality without compromising its traditional appeal.
This particular edition, celebrating the 175th anniversary of Thomas County, is not just a firearm but a commemorative piece. Being number 9 out of the limited 10 produced makes it a highly sought-after collector’s item. Such rifles often feature special engravings, finishes, and markings that signify their commemorative status and celebrate the specific event or anniversary. Owning one of these rifles is not only an investment in a high-quality firearm but also a piece of history, symbolizing both the heritage of Winchester as a gunmaker and the significance of Thomas County throughout American history. For collectors and enthusiasts of historical firearms, this Winchester 94AE, especially a piece as rare as 9 of 10, is a prized and treasured item.
This rifle is handsomely decorated in 24-karat gold artwork. This rifle is in Good condition and is waiting to be taken home by one lucky bidder. Please see our photos and good luck! – L.S.
