Overview

The Winchester Model 94 Golden Spike Commemorative was introduced in 1969 to honor the 100th anniversary of the completion of the U.S. Transcontinental Railroad (1869–1969), symbolized by the driving of the Golden Spike at Promontory Point, Utah. Chambered in the classic .30-30 Winchester, this limited-edition rifle combines the rugged dependability of the Model 94 lever-action with ornate embellishments that make it a collector’s centerpiece.

Specifications

Manufacturer: Winchester Repeating Arms Company

Model: 1894 / Model 94 Golden Spike Centennial Commemorative

Caliber: .30-30 Winchester

Action: Lever action, tubular magazine-fed

Capacity: 7 rounds (tubular magazine)

Barrel Length: 20″ carbine-style barrel

Overall Length: ~38″

Weight: ~6.5 lbs

Stock: Walnut with straight grip, smooth finish

Receiver Finish: Gold-plated with engraved commemorative markings

Barrel & Magazine Finish: Blued steel

Sights: Adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sight, hooded front sight

Buttplate: Brass-colored plated carbine buttplate

Special Features:

Right side of receiver engraved with “1869–1969” and a railroad scene

Left side engraved with “Golden Spike Commemorative” motif

Golden spike inlay on the right side of the stock

Brass-colored accents on the receiver, buttplate, and forend cap

Design & Features

Commemorative Detailing: Gold-plated receiver, engraved motifs, and symbolic inlays highlight the rifle’s historical theme.

Classic Model 94 Action: Reliable lever-action design renowned for smooth cycling and rugged durability.

Carbine Profile: 20″ barrel makes for a handy, well-balanced rifle in the field or as a display piece.

Presentation: Originally sold in a commemorative box with paperwork, often accompanied by display hangtags and medallions.

Performance

While primarily intended as a collector’s rifle, the Golden Spike Commemorative retains the functionality of a standard Winchester 94. Chambered in .30-30 Winchester, it offers proven hunting performance for deer-sized game if fired, though most examples remain unfired to preserve collectible value.

Use Cases

Collector’s Rifle: Designed as a limited-edition commemorative piece with historical significance.

Display: Gold-plated receiver and railroad engravings make it a striking showpiece.

Investment: Value depends heavily on condition and completeness (box, papers, and accessories add significant worth).

Functional Firearm: Fully capable of firing .30-30 Winchester rounds, though rarely used in the field due to collectible status.