Stevens Favorite question

I purchased a Stevens Favorite (1894) last week that was in sorry shape. I bought it to see if I could make it operational and look and look good. tonight I was cleaning some of the rust off the barrel with some steewool and I uncovered the markings about the company and the patent date. Here`s the question, if this is the 1894 model why does it have a patent date of 1794??? Kinda strange to me. The name I need an answer for, it says J Stevens A & T Co. what does the A& T stand for. Thanks, Gary

I think it's J Stevens Arms & Tool Company.

The 1794 is probably a lightly stamped 1894.

Just went and rechecked it under the magnifying light and it definately says patent APR. 1794 it`s strange. maybe they misstamped some of the first ones.. Gary

Mine has the same thing. (apr.17 94) I think it is april 17th 1894 is what it means but am not sure.

Joe

Joe is right, it's April 17, 94.