The Parker serialization book shows all these guns probably started production in 1888. Its my understanding that they were assigned serial numbers when they started production. I find it curious that 55427 remained in stock until 1893. The stock book for these guns is missing but it appears that 16 ga hammer guns were made in production runs from just a few to as many as twenty at a time. Guess they were just added to inventory until an order came in. Or maybe they started a production run when they received enough orders. Your hammers aren't invisible, just concealed. Although I prefer visible hammers they're all nice. I also have two 16 ga 0 frame GHs, one with straight toplever one with fishtail. Both damascus.
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Eric M. Baker, DTC(FMF), USN, Retired
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