I found something interesting on a very early high grade Parker in the early 3,000 serial number range. As with many of these early guns, it can be difficult to tell for sure of the exact grade. In looking at the engraving and other features of the gun, one would think it is a $200 grade or higher for sure. Gun has full tear drops on the bolsters and very nice billnote style engraving.
When I checked in the usual places for Serial number stamps, I found something interesting on both the buttstock and the forend. A number "4" stamped in both pieces. Likely a grade stamp? In looking at the early grade price lists in TPS, it has hard to tell what one may translate a number 4 to be in a dollar amount.
The forend is also marked with the Foster makers mark as mentioned as being common on early guns according to TPS.
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Early Grade Stamping in wood
Threaded Mode