It does indeed look much better, and more importantly, it definitely has not been refinished. You can make it look even better with a very careful cleaning with some Kroil and copper wool.

I am going to up the value estimate to a minimum of $1800.

The one remaining question I have is what is the 2-digit year number that is marked on the bottom of the barrel?

Bert

You will need to remove the magazine tube and the forend stock. This will allow you to examine and clean all of the non-exposed parts of the barrel and mag tube.

Bert

mallard said
can you explain how to remove those parts? is there a site or reference that I can use to do so? Or is this something that I will need a gunsmith for?

If you have the proper size screw drivers, and a pin punch set, it is relatively easy.

1. On the bottom of the magazine tube is a screw… turn it out far enough that it clears the barrel.

2. Drift the retaining pin in the magazine tube retaining band out left-to-right.

3. Remove both screws in the forend stock nose-cap and pull it forward slightly (approximately 1/4")

4. Pull the magazine tube forward until it clears the nose-cap (caution, it is under spring pressure).

5. Pull the forend stock straight down.

You can now crack open a cold beverage of your choice, and then assemble your cleaning supplies.

The 2-digit year number is stamped in the concave are milled in the barrel next to the receiver frame.

Bert