Shotgun: Damascus Barrels

Parker damascus barreled shotguns (hammer or hammerless) are very collectible if original condition is over 40%. Specimens in 90% or better condition with strong case colors can approximate values of the steel barrel models if the bores are in excellent condition also (no pitting). Values for under 40% specimens fall off rapidly and are no longer comparable to steel barrel guns. As an example, a steel "D" Grade (without ejectors) might range from $1,500 to $7,000 (10%-100%) with a rather even downward progression of values in between the high and low values. A 100% damascus "D" Grade could have a $3,500+ price tag hanging from the trigger guard while 5%-15% condition specimen is typically seen priced in the $375-$550 range. Remember, the guns are not rare but their condition is.

Shotgun: Fluid Steel Barrels

Values listed below in the 95%-100% condition columns can vary somewhat as there is very little supply and strong demand for these high condition "cream puffs".

Note: Values are for non-ejector guns through the CH grade, ejectors assumed on BHE and better models. Add 15%- 30% for ventilated. ribs. Skeet model has beavertail forearm and single selective trigger valued at approx. 50%-75% higher than values shown. Higher grade guns typically had ejectors, and will not make as much difference percentage-wise in the overall value as those lower grades with ejectors. Ejectors typically will add 50% more value to a Parker in common grades. Also, lower condition high grade models sometimes have their values established by the potential gain in refurbishing these specimens.

Due to the extremely high value of Parker Guns, extreme care should be taken in their purchase. There are many upgraded and refinished guns represented as original; expert advice should always be sought. Many collectors would rather own a specimen with 30% original case colors than a refinished gun that is 100% (regardless who did the work). Many advanced collectors will discount a refinished Parker's value 40%-60% of the price for an original gun. Misrepresentation of refinished or upgraded Parkers is rampant today - especially case colors. Believe it or not, also beware of fake boxes and hanging tags - if the box and Parker shotgun are an original "pair", the value is enhanced tremendously. If the box/hanging tag is fake, you could pay as much as $1,500 to learn this lesson! In other words, do your homework, be careful, shop carefully, and above all, get a receipt for exactly what you are purchasing.

Frame size on Parker shotguns is determined by the number on the bottom of the barrel lug on breech. Frame sizes (from largest to smallest) include 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1-1/2, 1, 1/2, 0, 00, and 000. 8 ga. guns typically are framed 5, 6, or 7. 10 ga. guns typically are 3 or 4. 12 ga. guns typically range from 2 through 1 (more desirable). "1/2" frame 12 ga. guns are very rare and desirable. 20 and 16 ga.'s range from 2 through 0 (more desirable). 28 ga. guns are either 0 or 00 (more desirable and twice as expensive). .410 bore shotguns are 0, 00, or 000 (most common and most desirable). 8 and 10 ga. steel barreled shotguns are very rare, and prices can equate .410 bore values if the original condition is there.

The grade on Parker shotguns is a number or initials located on the water table of the frame. An alphabetical designation would indicate the grade immediately. For numerals, a "2"would indicate a GM, while an "8" would specify an A-1 Special - interpolate for the others (numbers 3 through 7). Parker shotguns manufactured by Remington will have date codes stamped on left barrel flat that corresponds to the month and the year (see Remington serialization in the Serialization Section). Also, if a Parker gun was returned to Remington for repair, alteration, or refinishing, it will usually have the date code stamped with a suffix of 3 (i.e. OK3 represents some type of rework completed in either July of 1941 or 1963). There is some ambiguity with the year as the year codes repeat.

A note about Parker condition: Percentages of condition indicate the amount of original case colors remaining on the frame, but sometimes these colors are faded and the rest of the gun is excellent - hence, all the separate condition factors must be considered when determining overall condition.

A Parker IS NOT 60% if the barrel bluing and stock forearm varnish are 60% but case colors are only 10%. Typically, a 60% case color Parker shotgun will have 90%+ blue and varnish, yet this does not mean the gun is 90% overall. Similarly, a 20% case color Parker will probably have 90% barrel bluing remaining.

Strong, original case colors are the key in determining Parker condition and subsequent values.

Production totals for each of the models listed below are based on the estimates in Peter Johnson's book " Parker - America's Finest Shotgun", published in 1961. During 1992, Remington opened up the original production ledgers to a group of writers who are in the process of publishing a new book on Parker Brothers. a group of writers who are in the process of publishing a new book on Parker Brothers. This new book will contain updated information regarding actual production totals (including original configuration by ser. no., in many cases).

PREMIUMS FOR PARKER SHOTGUNS:

• Add 20% for SST
• Add 20% for beavertail forearm.
• Add 20%-50% for VR (rare on smaller gauges).
• Add 20% for straight English stock.
• Add 20% for skeleton steel butt plate.
• Add 20% for short barrels (26 in. with open chokes).