Barrel and receiver are the most common place.
Winchester serial numbers were unique to the model of the gun,The only thing the serial number tells you about the gun is it's age.The serial number you've listed was from a gun made in 1974.
Receiver
To find your Winchester model 1897 serial number you need to look on the gun. You also can take it to a local gun dealer who can help find the number.
Your Winchester model 1894 was made by Winchester in 1908.
You cannot find out unless you provide the model number with the serial number.
Impossible to value a weapon with only the serial number.
Proofhouse.com has Winchester sn tables.
The serial number is found on the under side of the gun before the forearm.
The gun was made in 1956.
The gun was made in 1901.
The gun were made in 1906.
Blue Book of Gun Values