Dan, The 101 back action is a smashing gun. If "a 12 ga shell fits nicely," It is most likely a 12. This would make it a $110 Dollar Grade in the initial catalog which listed both the 11 and 12 ga at $110 in laminated or Damascus steel.
For $125, it listed the same gun in a 10 ga.
Below this grade was a decarbonized steel back action gun which was listed for $75
The fore end metal tip is plain without the raised lip. I have SN 1274, a later gun that has the raised lip on the fore end tip but with decarbonized steel barrels and much plainer checkering. My gun is more of a relic.
The checkering on you gun is surprisingly intricate and well executed but I am no authority.
You asked about the superposed "s" in "Bros" on the top rib and this is typical and in no way unusual.
Sorry, I can't help you with values on your guns and frankly I don't think you can expect any realistic evaluation on the internet. It would be necessary for someone examine the gun in hand and to know values to be of any help to you. If it were an 11 ga. it certainly would be more valuable and as a laminated steel back action this is a big plus.
Best Regards,
Erick
|