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July 19, 2013
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I recently bought a model 12 16 ga and digging in BlueBook data find the gun was made in the first year of manufacturer for 16 ga : 1914
ser#105805
Also, the gun has a 26" barrel , nickel steel, and modified choke, which BlueBook says is a higher value for each one of those.
Seller says gun is in " very good -fine condition". It looks like it.
Adding all this up, what do you folks say about value, collectability and rarity ?
Bill
April 15, 2005
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Bill,
The serial number indicates that it was manufactured in December of 1914, which makes it a third year gun. The 16-gauge was introduced in the latter half of 1913. Additionally, the gun is a Model "1912" and it should be marked accordingly on the barrel.
Once again, the Blue Book does not have a clue about how to accurately price a Winchester.
Specifically, the 26-inch barrel length was standard for the 16-ga Model 1912 shotguns… no premium exists for standard items. All Model 1912 shotguns (20, 16, and 12 gauge) were made with Nickel Steel barrels as standard… again, no premium. The Modified choke was a factory no cost option (not a special order), and while not as common as one with a Full choke, it is relatively common… again, no premium.
The actual value of the gun is determined almost solely by the graded condition.
Finally, and of some concern, it is chambered for a maximum 2-9/16" shell. Current modern 16-gauge shells are 2-3/4" and are too long. Shooting modern shells in the gun is not recommended, and could be detrimental to the gun and the shooter.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
July 19, 2013
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Bert,
Thanks for the info…I guess the bottom line was going to be rarity.
BB said production for the 16ga & 12 ga began in 1914, with only the 20ga before that. Generalized I’m sure.
"MOD. 1912-16ga. mod " on barrel. Only paid $450, and it joins some others I have. Grew up with ’em.
Here’s web description & pics:
http://www.auctionflex.com/showlot.ap?co=44344&weid=44992&weiid=15668332&lso=lotnumasc&pagenum=17&lang=En
Bill
April 15, 2005
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Bill,
That is a very nice clean factory original Field grade gun. It is certainly worth what you paid for it. That stated, it has no "rarity" to it.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
October 27, 2014
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Recently purchased a early model 97 serial number in the 30,000 range. I ordered information from Cody. When it came back everything was as expected except one line in the middle list “Elliott” as the only thing on the line. Does anyone know what that means?
roma
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