Upgraded Parkers, Lesson 1

[Big Friend Ten (BFT)]

Upgraded Parkers, Lesson 1

While checking the Parkers on Gun Broker I noticed a AH 20 gauge starting at $20,500.
http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/Vie...Item=328726594

That’s a lot of money but it is an AH in 20 gauge, or is it? The first thing I did was check the serial number against the PARKER SERIALIZATION AND INDETIFICATION book. The Gun Broker add incorrectly lists the SN as 212204 but check the photos and you will see SN 204212. “The Book” lists it serial number 204212 as a VH. Indecently, the book is available from Amazon.com for $32;
http://www.amazon.com/Parker-Identif...Identification

I then checked the photos closely and noticed Vulcan Steel on the barrel top rib. Then I read in the listing that “It has the marking of world renowned engraver Angelo Bee on the bottom, near the trigger guard.” I do not think that a famous engraver would start with a high grade gun. Look at an A grade Parker and you will notice that there is no room to engrave anything else!

Here is the add:
“Alright! Here we go!! I expect a lot of emails on this gun and a lot of opinions - I accept and respect them all! This auction is for a Parker, Grade 6 (AH), side by side shotgun chambered for the 20 gauge shell. It is serial #212204 making it's manufactured date in 1923! This BEAUTIFUL gun has the most amazing engraving that I have ever seen on a gun. The wood is exquisite with very fine checkering. It has the marking of world renowned engraver Angelo Bee on the bottom, near the trigger guard. It is a great gun overall. I will be adding information to the listing as I learn it. This gun has some small usage marks on it as can be seen in pictures, but still a fantastic gun for your collection!”

So this was listed as an AH 20 grade but it is actually a VH which was upgraded by Angelo Bee (unconfirmed) and marked as AH on the action's water table.

I have nothing for or against this gun but before I would give over $20,000 for any gun I’d certainly want to know what it is really worth. Maybe an Angelo Bee engraved gun is worth the money, maybe.

The moral of this lesson is to buy The Book! It will be the best $32 you ever spent.

Mark