When was a Marlin Model 93 30-30 serial a2310 with an octagonal barrel manufactured and what is its approximate value today?

Answer 1

To make things difficult, Marlin did not use a typical sequential numbering system on the Model 1893. Serial numbers overlap with other models, etc. We can get close based on markings, and some crystal-ball work. Since you identify it as a 'Model 93' instead of 'Model 1893', I am assuming the marking on the top tang behind the hammer is the later 'Model 93.' Your gun should also be marked on the top barrel flat as follows: MARLIN FIRE-ARMS CO. NEW-HAVEN, CT. U.S.A. PATENTED. OCT.11.1887.APRIL 2.1889.AUG.1.1893. (would indicate pre-1919) THE Marlin Firearms CORPORATION New Haven, CONN.U.S.A.-PATENTED (after 1919) You almost certainly have the SPECIAL SMOKELESS STEEL marking on the barrel, indicating production after 1904. With the Model 1894, Marlin also used the letter-prefix in later production guns and if we make the leap and ASSUME that practice carries over, we can further estimate production c. 1912-1915 or so. So, you should have the top barrel marking, above, AND the Smokeless Steel marking which would definitely narrow it down from 1904-1919, and using the logic that Marlin probably carried the serial scheme across from the 1894 we can safely extrapolate your rifle to the c.1912 range. As to value, the 93 Marlin is heavily collected. Factors that affect value are RARITY (special order features), ORIGINALITY and CONDITION. Money can range from a few hundred to a few thousand depending on those factors. You need to get your rifle in the hands of an experienced Marlin person, or at least very good digital pictures sent, to start the evaluation process. sales@countrygunsmith.net Need more info to determine the date of manufacture for a2310. Is the prefix letter actually "a" or is it"A"? What is the complete rollstamp marking on the barrel? Is there a black and white "bullseye" imbedded in the bottom of the buttstock, @ 2 1/2" forward of the buttplate? Is this gun a carbine or rifle? What length barrel? With this info I can tell you the approximate date of mfg. I can say assuredly that it is post 1922-1935, but the rest will narrow it down. As for value, the only way to determine value on collectable firearms is by first hand examination, or very good pictures and description of the bore. This would be like asking the value of a car, without knowing if it was undriven or wrecked. marlinguy@juno.com