I always took that symbol as an abbreviation that evolved over time.
In my earlier back action guns the abbreviation and Font is the same as the picture Bruce posted. Though to my eye the "O" seams slightly smaller, which may also be part of the abbreviation. I posted serial# 97 and #029.
Later guns in the 1000 serial range I have have a slanted font engraving on the rib with the abbreviation as: Bros,, see picture from #01686
I don't have any Parkers is the 2000 serial range, but I have 3 in the 3000 serial number range where the abbreviation has changed to: Bros" see picture from #3644
And to confuse everyone once you think you have identified a pattern with Parkers, serial #10931 has the abbreviation back to: Bros,, I attached a picture as these are cool stub stwist barrels that letter as 29 1/2"
In my collection, after 15,000 it's all: BROS
I think it just evolved or different engravers were brought on and did it their way. This would make an interesting Parker Pages article. Does anyone have any other examples or outliers?
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