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Here is Ron Gabel's answer to question number 5090

Question:

My grandfather gave me a gun which belonged to his father. It is a 12-gauge Damascus double-barrel shotgun. Engravings: Ethan Allen & Co., Worcester, Mass. Allen's pats Nov. 9 1858 - Sept. 18, 1860, Aug. 22, 1865. Individual wood and metal parts are stamped "353." A trap door lifts up for loading and the trigger guard lowers to eject the shells. My grandfather tried to find more information about this gun in 1932, but all he found out was that the gun was probably made between 1865 and 1871. Any information or idea of what it's worth?

Answer:

The breech-loading double-barrel shotgun by Ethan Allen & Co. was made c. 1865 - 1871 and several hundred were produced. These unusual arms, covered by Allen patents of 1865 and 1868, had the novel feature of a trapdoor breech fitted with a locking lever/handle. Retail value in good condition $425.00.

Submitted By: Beth Hanson On: 11/17/2003 6:36:54 PM