Inherited a 12 gauge Parker ... need help

[Jim Benafel]

My parents just inherited an extremely well taken care of Parker 12 gauge double barrel shotgun. The SN is 121234. It has been in the family for about 100 years or longer, and stored in a gun safe for the last 50. They were told by a relative that he thought it was very valuable. Can anyone tell me anything about this, including age, and possible price ranges? Thanks. Jim

[Dean Romig]

Jim, while your Parker's serial number does not appear in the ID & Serialization book I checked and there are surviving records on it to support a research letter which will clearly explain to you it's grade and configuration when it left the factory.
Maybe you could show us some pictures?

[Bindlestiff]

Jim, have you tried to identify it's grade using the "Parker Identification" or "Parker Grades" links off the PGCA home page at http://parkerguns.org/ (see the list of links on the left side of that page).

There are good aids there that tell you what the numbers mean on the underside of the barrels. Have a look, it may be of some help to you.