I think the .38/56 is the real deal from Winchester. It's not difficult to do a phone check and verify that a museum letter is not a fake. It's my understanding that after the auction ended an experienced Winchester collector contacted the seller and purchased it. Again, I was sorely tempted. However, I didn't become aware of the auction until it had ended. It's my understanding that more than one Winchester collector contacted the seller after the auction ended. I believe that had happened by the time the auction ended, so I really didn't have a chance. A very very unique High Wall for sure. Light too - which seems the intent of the original purchaser.