Thank you Bert, I didn’t realize i needed to post the whole serial number.
The whole number does have an L in front of it so I do not know what it is then. Perhaps you could shed some light on what I have then?
The serial number on the barrel is L041665. I can’t seem to figure out how to attache pictures.
Hmmm… The serial number on the barrel assembly dates it as being manufactured in August/September 1944. It should be stamped with a 2-digit year number on the bottom of the barrel near the take down extension.
Very early in the Model 1912 production, the early 6-digit serial numbers had what appeared to be an “L” leading digit, but it was simply a poor cut rendition of the “1” digit (my theory was a lazy die maker). The same die(s) were previously used on the Model 1892, 1894, and 1897 receivers. The attached pictures show a few Model 1897 shotguns with the “L” looking numeral “1” digit. It is entirely possible that some of the late WW II production Model 12 shotguns also used a poorly made serial number digit die… I simply have not seen very many of them in the early 1-million serial number range.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
1 Guest(s)
