Valmet model and value requested

[#4mk1(T)]

Good Day everybody. I’m looking for a little help identifying exactly what model this Valmet 22 is. I’ve spent quite a bit of time on Google looking at images of various Valmet Lion rifles and though several come close none are exactly the same. The top of the receiver is marked “PIKKU LEIJONA” and has the Valmet script. It came to me with both aperture and tangent sights. Unfortunately it has been drilled and taped for scope mounts. I’ve had this rifle for a number of years and it’s a great shooter but since I got my Enfield No.8 trainer I just don’t shoot this rifle any more and I’m thinking about selling this one so I’m also looking for a value.

 

[Darkwater]

I could be wrong, but I believe that's the Valmet Assmunky 2000. They began a limited production run in 1950, originally a special order by the Scandinavian boy scout league for use in small bore competition. Shortly after production began, Valmet executives realized that the Finnish word "Assmunky" (agile shooter) did not translate well to english, limiting its sales (and making Valmet the laughing stock of the European rim-fire manufacturer's guild). As such, the product was discontinued shortly after it began, hence making this model particularly valuable.

Or it could be a Valmet "Pikku Leijona", a version of the Valmet "Finnish Lion" series of .22 rifles. Its a junior version of this small bore rifle, made smaller and cheaper for kids, made between 1957 and 1963


No idea what its worth!

 

[#4mk1(T)]

Thanks for the reply Darkwater. I think you’ve got it in one. The serial number and markings match the description:

Pikku Leijona (Small Lion, a junior sbr):
Manufactured from 1957 from serial# 500 to 1963 (serial# ending to 999).
New light receiver with sight leg in the side of the receiver.
Smaller and cheaper version for juniors.

Interesting it’s intended for “juniors” as it fits me almost perfectly and I’m 6 feet tall. So anyone have an idea as to value?