Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Winchester Collectors Winchester 1885 hi wall serial number

I was proud as could be with my purchase of a beautiful condition 1885 hi wall in 45-70 caliber. Museum said it was in lettering range.
Letter came back as a 38-55. Gun looks untouched, but of course it could have been re-barreled. --Which way do you read the serial number. Looking at the underside???
With the muzzle pointed on one direction serial reads 8696, but holding it the other way it reads 9698. Hate to waste another $70 giving the other serial number. Should it be read with the muzzle poinating to the right or to the left??

Bob

Holding the gun upside down with the muzzle pointed to the left and the butt of the gun in one's right hand the serial # is read from left to right....