Marlin 1893 Manufacture Date: A Guide to Identifying Your Rifle's Age

Marlin Firearms has been a renowned manufacturer of high-quality rifles for over a century, and their Model 1893 is one of the most iconic and sought-after models among collectors and hunters alike. However, determining the manufacture date of your Marlin 1893 can be a challenging task, especially with the company's unique serial number system.

To begin with, it's essential to understand how Marlin Firearms assigned serial numbers to their rifles. The serial number is usually stamped on the top stock tang or behind the hammer, and it consists of four digits followed by the letter 'C.' This might seem straightforward, but things get interesting when you look at the first two digits of the serial number.

According to Marlin's system, the first two digits of the serial number are subtracted from 100 to determine the year of manufacture. For example, if your rifle has a serial number starting with '02,' that would mean it was manufactured in 98 (100 - 2). However, this method is not foolproof, and without additional information, it can be difficult to pinpoint the exact date.

One online Marlin search site suggests that all Marlin 39's with an S prefix were made between 1958 and 1959. This might provide a useful starting point for those who have an S- prefixed serial number, but it's essential to remember that this is not a definitive solution.

Unfortunately, the 29th Edition of the Blue Book of Gun Values does not provide specific serial number references, only general values. As a result, without additional documentation or records from Marlin Firearms, determining the manufacture date of your Model 1893 can be a challenge.

In conclusion, while there is no straightforward way to identify the manufacture date of your Marlin 1893 based on the serial number alone, it's essential to understand the unique system used by Marlin Firearms. By combining this knowledge with online research and other available resources, you might be able to make an educated guess about the age of your rifle.

Marlin 1893 manufacture date