Looked at some 'old' Winchesters belonging to a friend this afternoon.
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One was a "Model 1886" with patent dates 1884 and 1885. It has a 3 digit serial number under the frame. BUT, it was prefexed with the letter "R" ??? - R497.

Looking up just the number 497 indicates the rifle was mfg. in 1886. (Obviously)

BUT, does anyone know what the "R" stands for?
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The rifle WAS re-barreled long ago and stamped "45-70". Also the barrel is stamped with the initials of the gunsmith, B.J.

Another friend speculated the gunsmith added the "R" because of re-barreling. (The R does NOT look 'added' to me.)

Any 'help' sure appreciated.

Something has been replaced for sure!! it could have even been the lower tang where the serial number is stamped. I have never seen any 1886 rifles with a prefix. Don

It has nothing to do the the serial number,but means there was a "factory rework" of some kind.Could be a restock,rebarrel or most any upgrade...