I would not consider myself an expert, but have bought, sold, and currently have a few pre-64 Model 70's. At one point I had several, but, getting on in my years, I'm reducing as opposed to adding.....but this is very difficult. I just passed on a very nice early 243 Winchester. But, I do have a few that I just can't seem to part with and they may go to the grave with me.
It's quite possible to have difficulty reconciling the serial numbers to dates, particularly towards the transition period between pre-64 and post-64 Model 70's(and Model 94's as well). Keep in mind that the same reciever was used for short and long actions, and existing stocks of pre-64 parts were being managed in preparation for the new models production process changeover and introduction. It should also be noted that the fit, finish, and overall workmanship of the last few years of pre-64 rifles were not up to the high standards of the earlier production rifles. However, when the post 64 came out, it was a disaster for Winchester. It took them a few years to clean up the sloppy bolt, and poor finish quality of the newly released, push feed Model 70. The "Riflemans Rifle" was declared dead, and so began the Pre-64 cult.
With all that, IMO, the asking price of the rifle shown in this thread looks to be a very fair. I'm sure there are hard core collectors that would be very interested in adding an unfired, mint sample of an early 300WM to their collection. If it had the original box and paperwork it would probably add around 10-20%. I think unaltered pre-64s are a solid investment.
My favorite hunting rifle for many years. A late 50's vintage Supergrade in 30-06. Also have an African in 458, and a 300H&H, both, late 50"s.
