You have made an incorrect assumption- that a serial number is unique to only one firearm in the world. It is not, or serial numbers would run in the trillions. There is no master list that says THIS serial number was used for THAT gun. Are there no other markings on the .22 rifle?
The serial number 4279990 is a partial serial number for this rifle. To determine the date the rifle was manufactured you need to provide a complete serial number that begins with letters.
your rifle was manufactured in 1894.
Your Winchester was manufactured in 1952.
1913
1926
manufactured 1970
1924
With the serial number that you have provided;your Winchester model 1886 rifle was made in the year 1894.
Your rifle serial number 2231046 was manufactured in 1957. If you would like an appraisal of your rifle contact me at garyodell551@gmail.com
Please include the serial number in your question to get the right answer.
1968
year 1908