FS: 1927 Winchester Model 12 16ga shotgun

It came to me after my dad passed away and i've never used it once. No time. So i figure someone else should put it to use rather than have it collect dust in my closet. I've done some research online and it looks like these things are actually pretty valuable to the right buyer, but I'm just aiming (get it?) to get some cash to pay for some miata repairs, so I'm asking $375 OBO. I'm a reasonable guy, and this thing is not in "collector's condition" so feel free to throw some numbers out there.

serial number 503229

thanks!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...-28-21_182.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...-29-28_666.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...-29-46_485.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...-29-54_189.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...-30-21_970.jpg

Looks neat and price seems fair.
edit: length of barrel? Shorter usually means higher price.

I just measured it at 26 3/4". Does this mean it's worth more or less?
<---obvious gun noob

Your numbers match which is good. 26, 28, 30, 32 are barrel lengths. 26 open choke more valuable than 30 full choke.
Info from firearmstalk.com

MODEL 12 SLIDE ACTION
- 12 (introduced 1914), 16 (introduced 1914), 20 (initial ga., mfg. 1912, 2 1/2 in. chamber mfg. until 1927), or 28 (introduced 1937) ga., 25 (20 ga. only, mfg. 1912-14), 26, 28, 30, or 32 in. standard, nickel, or stainless steel (scarce) barrel with or without rib (matted, solid, or VR), 2 9/16 (early 16 or 20 ga., until 1927, at ser. no. 464,565), 2 3/4 (became standard 1927) or 3 in. chamber, 6 shot, blue metal, various chokes, hammerless, plain pistol grip or straight walnut stock and forearm, marked Model 1912 from 1912-1919, approx. ser. no. 172,000. 14 in. LOP was original standard, then changed to 14 1/2 in. circa 1930. Mfg. 1912-1976.
"Y" prefix appears on Model 12s built 1964-1980 - see listing under Post-64 Models.
Nickel steel barrel Model 12s (mfg. 1912-1931) have become very popular in recent years, and some collectors are actually specializing on nickel steel Model 12s only. Winchester proofed steel barrels were introduced in 1931.
Stainless steel barrel Model 12s were introduced during 1926 as a special order only, and discontinued in 1931 (65X,XXX serial range). Values typically range between $1,450 - $3,500, and are very rare in over 95% original condition, as the bluing easily wore off the stainless steel barrel since it was a "Japaned" finish, not regular bluing.
Original gauge can be determined by removing the buttstock and observing the gauge marking on the stock screw boss.
"Donut" post Winchester VRs are more desirable than the rectangular post.
13-15 in. LOPs could be special ordered on Model 12s until 1964.
Special order features on field guns have captured much collector interest in recent years. Combinations of these features can add a considerable percentage to the base values listed. Rare special orders on rare variations are very desirable and prices can double and more if the combination is right. As is the case with most other collectible shotguns at this time, Model 12s with open choked barrels in shorter lengths are A LOT more desirable (and expensive) than a specimen with a 30 in. full choke barrel (most common). Values listed are for standard configuration (28 or 30 in. full choke barrel with no rib). For most Model 12s, values for condition factors less than 60% will approximate the 60% price, because of shooter demand. Premiums must be added for the rarer open choked barrels in shorter length on all gauges.
Recently, some non-original, re-stamped 28 ga. barrels have been added to 16 or 20 ga. frames "creating" a more desirable (and expensive) gun to unsuspecting buyers. Roll die markings are getting better and better so be very cautious when considering a non-Cutts 28 ga. (as in get a receipt specifying originality). 28 ga. ser. no. range is approx. 720,138 to 1,857,XXX. 28 ga. Model 12s were available with both 2 3/4 (common) or 2 7/8 (infrequent) in. chamber. The 28 ga. has a magazine tube which is crimped, swaged, and necked at the rear and is visible with barrel assembly off and slide pulled back, enabling mag tube to protrude slightly at the rear of receiver extension. Believe it or not, there are getting to be a lot of fake Model 12 boxes that have been intentionally aged. Carefully screen NIB (watch the hanging tag also) specimens in this model.
Editor's Note: The Model 12 Winchester was produced continuously from 1912-1980. Over 2,027,500 were produced both in standard and deluxe (Pigeon) grades. Pigeon grades were first listed in 1914 and disc. during the war (1941). Reintroduced in 1948, they were disc. permanently in 1964, after which the Super Pigeon Grade became available only on a custom-order basis from Winchester's Custom Gun Shop. These guns are worth 50-300% premiums depending on gauge, barrel lengths, stock options, engraving patterns, etc.
With an attrition rate of 33%, Model 12s with rare features produced 50 years ago will only be much rarer today (and expensive). 28 ga. guns were built between 1934 and 1960. Gauge rarity in increasing order is 12 ga., 16 ga., 20 ga., .410 bore (Model 42), and 28 ga. Serialization breakdown by year of manufacture is provided under the "Model Serialization" section of this book. When collecting Model 12s, ser. nos. on the underside of receiver (forward end), should match ser. no. on bottom rear of Mag. tube.


Grading 100% 98% 95% 90% 80% 70% 60%
12 ga. $700 $550 $450 $375 $325 $275 $225


Also produced as Model 12 Featherweight, Riot guns, Trench guns, Heavy Duck gun, Skeet gun, Trap gun, Super Field Grade, Black Diamond Trap, Tournament Grade, and Pigeon Grade.

Wow. My avatar accurately reflects my reaction to your post. :)

So its chambered for 2 3/4" shells, which is good. But apart from that tidbit, im not sure what else applies to my gun there.

Is there any sentimental value to that shotgun?

Well that post I copied over was from sept 2010. Info might have changed since then.
Noticed you have nickel steel, which is desirable.
Most important thing is bluing grade. And I have no idea how to rate a gun, so you are on your own besides having someone appraise it (maybe at a gun show). Plus that grading scale I posted said it was for 12, and you have 16 gauge.
Your stock and pump slide wood look 2 different colors which is a little odd, but could be the picture or just old wood, maybe that's just how they were. Your stock looks original but maybe the pump slide has been replaced?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by tinman831

Is there any sentimental value to that shotgun?

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Nope.

It appears as if the buttstock is not original being in much worse condition than the rest of the shotgun. Not a take down and not a 12 gauge both hurt the value but you are certainly in the ballpark on the price, if the stock were in the same condition as the rest of the gun. These are great old guns and the metal on yours looks great. Refinishiing the stock would not be tough.

Im guessing the stock's color/condition is from some minor water contact/damage based on the water line in a similar location on the case.

Either way, very cool piece. I'd love to have it. Boss says no right now lol.

Sale pending

Sold. Thanks for the info, fellas.