Joe - there is absolutely no need to apologize for anything or to anyone -
The only way to REALLY learn about Parker Guns is to get out 'amongst 'em', so to speak, like you just did. Never assume that a dealer that does not really specialize in Parkers actually knows what he has on his table at any given show. For example, the 26" VHE with the 'Parker' inscribed at the hinge break on the bottom, no "Parker Bros." on the sides of the receiver, yet a Meriden addressed rib on top, was clearly an unusual (NOT rare) gun of very early Remington manufacture at Meriden after the 1934 buyout by Remington.
The dealer sort of indicated he "knew all about that", as he put it, hence the hefty price tag. But IMHO he completely missed the standout feature of the gun, the Remington-installed single selective trigger; not a Miller and not a Parker Bros., with no markings visible anywhere on the trigger boss or spoon - perhaps a first-generation Remington trigger installed at Meriden? Who knows? Unless you pulled the stock off, you'd never know; this in front of a guy who didn't want the forend removed unless I was a 'serious buyer'?
The only way to know is to ask questions, and many times a lot of these dealers don't know and don't really care - all they know is its a Parker and Parkers bring big money. So walk softly and carry a big checkbook - and a good magnifying glass and tape measure to boot. And by all means, if you don't own the Parker SN book, get one!
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