UPDATE: My local contact went to the store today and looked at the Marlin.... err, I mean Remlin. Sadly, this gun is one of the transitional models. The barrel is clearly marked "REP" on the right side just forward of the receiver. The barrel is also marked "New Haven, Connecticut". My contact checked the action and says it functions fine, but lacks the fit and finish/ smoothness of the lever actions he's used to.
The stock had a few small dings, and there was a blemish on the stock near the barrel band that almost looked like glue or a sealant of some kind. The store is absolutely firm at $479 plus $25.00 shipping. I do have the serial number, but at this point I think I'm gonna pass since this gun is obviously a Remlin.
Any thoughts before I totally walk away from this?