[redlinedc]

Hi, I just picked up a Parker shotgun, which has Damascus steel Barrels, serial # 67335, which I was told was manufactured In 1891. The frame size I found on the barrel lug was #3, which I was told is a 10 gauge, and rare. The barrel weights marked on the barrel flats is a large 5, with a small 2. It has the letter E stamped above the serial number on the water table, which I was told makes this an GHE grade because of the flying ducks engraved on the side of the receiver, and what appears to be 2 Quail engraved underneath by the trigger guard. It has a walnut stock with engraving on the stock stating right behind the triggers. It is in nice overall condition, with at least 95% of the original bluing still intact. The butt plate has a circle with a dog's head in the middle, with the words Parker Brothers around the outside. What I would like to know is the rarity of this gun, and an approximate value for my insurance company. I would like to thank anyone who can assist me in advance!!! :confused:

Regards
Don

[rondog]

What, no photos?

[redlinedc]

Here are some pics !!

[oneounceload]

Welcome to THR!

There are several sites that have folks way more knowledgeable about these things:

http://www.parkerguns.org/

http://doublegunshop.com/

They should be able to fix you right up!....

[MCgunner]

The pix are kinda dark, but I can't see the laminations if it's a damascus barrel.

Neat old gun. Hope it's an expensive one. :D Regardless, it a neat old fowling piece.

[rondog]

Can Damascus barreled shotguns be fired at all? Even with black powder loads?

[JohnBT]

So much of the answer to your price question is going to depend on the percentage of case colors remaining on the receiver.

www.stevecobbguns.com/amersg.htm

On this site there are some ads. For instance, this one has 90% blue, but only 60% case color...

"PARKER BROS - GHE - 26" BARRELS, IC/IM, 7 LBS. 5 OZS., 14" X 1 1/2" X 2 5/16", D.T., P.G., DOGS HEAD BUTT, ALL ORIGINAL, CC 60%, BL. BLUE 90%. TRIGGER GAURD BLUE 25%. No. 1 1/2 FRAME. - PHOTO'S 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

$5,200."

pic #6...

http://www.stevecobbguns.com/pictures/PARKER%20GHE%2012GA%205200%20BOT.JPG

[oneounceload]

Can Damascus barreled shotguns be fired at all? Even with black powder loads?

IF a competent smith gives the OK, then yes they may be fired....There ARE loads out there from RST and Polywad for older guns that are loaded for the pressures of the times - only AFTER it has been checked. There are many groups of folks, (Vintagers comes to mind) where old guns are regularly fired in matches, complete with the appropriate attire, etc.

http://www.vintagers.org/

[MCgunner]

I might shoot a few BP rounds out of it if it's in good shape, but mostly, a gun like that is for owning and admiring IMHO. I sure as HELL wouldn't take it out in the salt marsh. That's what Spartans are for. :D

[Gun2020]

I have a Parker shotgun as well and was wondering if some one could give me a price on it I am looking to sell it