I have recently come into possession of a model 39 serial number S4xxx. This rifle has a curved lever, octagonal barrel, case colored receiver, and star marking on tang. There is slight rust on all metal parts and the wood parts seem to have been shelaqued some time ago. Should i clean it up with wd40 and 0000 steel wool and strip the wood or leave "as is"?
Any idea of value?

Welcome to the forum. Sounds like a neat rifle; would love to see some pictures. Some of the Marlin-aholics here can surely guess on the age.

http://www.rimfirecentral.com/

Go here to the Marlin section, and you'll find a sticky with serial number date ranges. I would definitely use 0000 steel wool and oil on the metal on the rust. You may want to try Flitz metal polish first if it's really light though. Not sure how to best clean up the stock, but I wouldn't refinish unless absolutely necessary.

I have a Marlin 39 Serial Number 10xxx. I suspect it was manufactured in the late 1920's. It has an ivory bead and knurled mag cap. Does not show much wear on the receiver case so maybe it hasn't seen much action. I have what appears to be an original canvas case?


Will

Go over to Rimfire Central and go to the Marlin section. Look for a guy who goes by vepr762. He seems to have all the answers on about any Marlin 39 made. He has a few nice older models himself. He should be able to tell you anything you need to know.