That's a tough one. Problem is the 56 and 57s were not all that well known, even in their day and production numbers were never very high compared to Model 60s and 39s and so on. My first ever gun, though was a 56, so someone like me would be willing to pay more for one in good condition, especially a steel gun. Someone not familiar with the model would probably walk right on buy.

Anyway, if it helps, I just saw an aluminum receiver 56 in good condition go for $375, the other day. It was in a local shop and someone beat me to it. I'll get the next one.

 

They were made from 1955-64, and very few have S/Ns. Only briefly at the start of production in '55 did they use S/Ns, so, I would consider one with the S/N somewhat rare. I have one without the S/N, Steel Receiver, had broken front bead on sight, hairline cracks in stock, good metal, that I was happy to pay just under $200 for. If I came across another, with S/N and in very good condition, I can see myself paying $350 - $400 for it. For your puposes with the trade and all, I would start much lower with them. It is a great little rifle and fun as heck to shoot!

 

They usually go from $350-500+ when one shows up here. Tending towards the upper end these days and I haven't seen one in a couple of years. They're a low-production item, the steel receivers weren't made for long and one with a serial is very rare. Swap the guy a disk drive or two and be happy.

Stan S.

 

If I remember right,the steel receiver 56 was first year production only.I know Marlin overshot the runway and let a few Levermatics get out without serial numbers AFTER the GCA( gun control act of 1968 and offered to stamp any unnumbered guns returned to the factory.Maybe yours was returned,maybe not.

Anyhow, $400.00 is reasonable for a nice unaltered steel 56.

 

Well I was finally able to buy the gun today Serial # M1374. It is in decent shape walnut stock has a few blems here & there blueing looks good front sight has the hood. Got it for $275.00 with 350 rounds of .22LR only one mag but it is a Marlin mag . Has original butt plate & liner so I think all & all a decent deal I will post a few pics tomorrow.

 

Decent is an understatement. Nice, nice find. We're going to hold you to the pic promise.

 

ah, an excuse for me to show off my model 57 :biggrin:

 

I know prices vary by region. A older 56 has popped up for trade (wants computer parts) this one that is serial # gun with the steel receiver. Looks like one mag no scope or sling looks to be in decent shape not NIB just looking for a ballpark price for a possible cash deal.

I frequent gun and pawn shops looking for old Marlins.A while back I saw a 56 levermatic in Action gun ,Melbourne Fl. for $350. In like new cond

 

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