Marlin 12 gauge shotgun identification

[AJAX22]

I recently picked up a neat old marlin shotgun for a project.

It's a takedown 12 gauge that has a big exposed bolt that slides back on the right side of the receiver and an exposed hammer.

It has what appears to be the original forend and possibly the original stock (although the wood is slightly different stains.

It has a four didget serial number 693X and appears to have 70-80% of the original finish left on it (a lovely patina)

The barrel says:

"The Marlin Firearms Corporation, New Haven, Conn USA"
"PATD. U.S.A. MAR 24 May 19 1908 Nov 23 1909 2Patents-Pending"

and in large letters: "12 Ga"

I've heard that all the old style marlin pump guns are not safe to shoot, so my plan was to turn this into a movie prop and only run blanks through it.

Before I cut it down, or restain the wood to make it into the prop I want, I just wanted to check with you guys that I wasn't gonig to destroy a priceless piece of history, or some rare and valuable gun.

What is it exactly, what is it worth?, ok ot chop it up?

Thanks

 

[JohnBT]

Is it similar to this engraved, high-priced Model 24. They were made around 1910-1915 if memory serves and a plain one would be worth maybe $100 or $200.

www.cabelas.com/gun-inventory---lehi---american-sg---906628-mar24c12-leh.shtml

John

 

[BSlacker]

Well, I would not cut it up thats for sure. Check out this web site for info on Marlin shotgun safety.

http://marauder.homestead.com/files/Marlin98s.htm#_Toc5766664

Cowboy shooters like the exposed hammer and will pay a little extra over collectors or shooters. I paid 275 two years ago for a shooter model 28, no exposed hammer. If it fails the safety test above it can be repaired.
Cut up a replica or a gun no parts are available to repair, sure, but not a complete 24 please.

 

[elrod]

Really need pictures. Could be a model 24 or a "Trap Gun". These were manfactured between 1908 and 1917. Value, depending upon condition, generally from $200 to $400.

(Disclaimer--- Info based on info given....)

 

[AJAX22]

It doesnt have any engraving on it, I'll try to get some pictures posted tomorrow (I'm taking the day off work to get some auto work done to my car so I can slack in the afternoon)

If does turn out to be only a $200 gun thats not safe to shoot, why not cut it up and make something usefull out of it?

 

[AJAX22]

Here are some pictures,

I couldn't borrow the camera from work, but it should give you a basic idea.

 

[elrod]

I'll stick with my orginal identification. The M24 is an improved version of the
21. Manfactured between 1908 and 1917.

*Values:
Exc----$375
V.G.---$300
Good--$250
Fair---$150
Poor--$100

The "Trap Model" is unique insomuch as it has no numerical model number. It is quite similar to the M24.


*Values:
Exc----$450
V.G.---$400
Good--$350
Fair---$250
Poor--$175

*Source--2008 Standard Catalog of Firearms, Shideler

 

[AJAX22]

How can you tell the 24 from the Trap? is it a designation marking on the gun or a configuration?

And how do you tell grade on a firearm?