Inherited 12 gauge

[Richard Loveall]

My Father recently passed away and my brothers and I went through his safe. I got possession of his Parker Brothers 12 gauge side by side, that is in excellent condition. I am very interested in gaining some information about this piece, primarily for the date of manufacture. I found a website that you type in the SN and it says that this piece was made in 1903. I’m not sure if that is accurate. Any help would be appreciated

[MrBojangles]

Can you provide more photographs in natural lighting? Your Parker is either very nice or very restored. Unfortunately, I think it’s the latter but more photographs will help in this regard.

It looks like 117512 is the serial number and so 1903 would be correct.

[Richard Loveall]

What, specifically, would you like me to photograph?

[MrBojangles]

Various views of the barrels, receiver, and wood, including barrel markings. Also the water table and underside of the barrels.

[MrBojangles]

The underside of the frame, as well. And a top down view of the thumb latch when closed.

[Richard Loveall]

117512 is the SN

[Richard Loveall]

I hope you can see these well

[Dean Hanson]

Hello, Very nice VH grade restored Parker. The colors on the frame are from cyanide coloring not traditional case hardening. Wood has been refinished and IMHO very tastefully. Your gun was indeed manufactured in 1903 just a few years after the introduction of the VH grade. It is the lowest graded Parker and the most produced, however still assembled with the finest fit and finish as a high grade. Probably a 2 stamped on the rear barrel lug, which is frame size, jg and or wk in a circle(gun works supervisors) large single and smaller number which is the unstruck barrel weight and of course the serial number. Serial number also on the water table(frame flat), and trigger guard... hopefully all match. Having the gun checked by a competent sxs Smith would be in order with barrel wall thickness being most crucial. Then.... shoot it.

[Richard Loveall]

Thank you,Mr Hanson. Would you be able to place a value on this piece, and what is it chambered as ? I don’t think it is indicated on the barrel

[Dean Hanson]

Richard, the serial number is not in the reference book many of us have, so I can only assume it is a 12 gauge as you initially said. Value is a tough one... kinda what someone is willing to pay.