I cannot provide a answer unless you include the serial number to your Winchester model 12 pump action shotgun.
1937
With the serial number that you have provided,your Winchester model 1894 rifle was made in the year 1913.
It probably did not leave the factory with that finish. I would guess that the serial number is unreadable because the gun was polished too aggressively by whoever added the nickel plating. Without the serial number, a Winchester expert may be able to approximate the manufacture date by examining the gun, but the exact year cannot be determined.
600-2000 depending on condition
There are no serial numbers on the Winchester model 72. It was produced from 1938 until 1959 with an approximate production of 161,000.
Proofhouse.com has sn data
1894 winchestre rifle sin 8161 approximate value
1894 winchestre rifle sin 8161 approximate value
The nickel steel 15 gauge Winchester model 12 serial number 580158, is valued at $400 in good condition.Ê In fair condition, it is valued at $350.Ê
1911
Your winchester model 1894 rifle was made in the year 1943.The serial number range for that year was 1,221,289-1,267,741 approximate.