Marlin 1881 with Octagon/Round barrel

[marlinysh]

Hello experts,
Just got Marlin 1881 45-70, made in 1883 (serial 11xx) with 24" barrel that transitioning from octagon to the round in the middle of the barrel. Have rear peep sights. Condition is good, 50-60%
Basically I want to know story behind this type of barrels.
Any information about this configuration, value and rarity will be really appreciated.
Pictures will be ready soon

Thanks in advance

[Regnier (gunrunner)]

Marlinysh;

The serial number is too low for the old Marlin records, so there is no way of knowing if this is an original half octagon barrel without seeing it. Marlin made very few Model 1881's with the half octagon barrel, and the 24 inch barrel is not the standard length either.
The old factory records, that start at 4,096 show that there are 47 Model 1881's LISTED that had a half octagon barrel. The records also show that there are 2,788 Model 1881's LISTED with a 24 inch barrel. These numbers will include both the large frame and small frame guns.
I emphasize the word LISTED as there are blanks in the records, so we do not know the exact number of any particular detail actually made of Marlin guns.

[marlinysh]

Thanks for the info.
If all original, what value of this piece of history ?

[Regnier (gunrunner)]

Marlinysh;

Without knowing the overall condition of the gun in question, it is not possible to give an estimation of value at this time. Condition of the original factory finish on the wood and metal determines the value along with the rarity of any factory option present. If it has been refinished, then the value will be downgraded substantially regardless of rarity.