Genuine Gold Plated triggers were a standard feature on all Marlin lever rifles from 1958-1982 intended to add a little touch of class; the feature was dropped to save a few cents off production costs, and I don't believe the gold triggers on some of today's modern models is actual gold but is instead a gold color. This feature was not reserved for chain stores; and yes, Marlin rifles from the 1978 era are good quality guns and come without the cross bolt safety device.