Tom, When Marlin continued to make L.C. Smiths in 1968, the serial numbers used were a continuation of the L.C. Smith Gun Company series, however the number was prefixed with FWM. A short run of special Deluxe Field Grade Guns was also made by Marlin. These guns are in the 100,000 serial number range. a total of 188 were produced and they also prefixed with FWM.
At the time the Hunter Arms Company went bankrupt and the L.C. Smith Cun Company took over (November 26, 1945), the guns in process were finished and serial numbered, after that all new guns numbered in a third series which have FWS as a prefix and that went from FWS1-FWS56,796.
So from serial number FWM56,801 to 59,152 they made 2,351.
As far as value, NIB, is always brings higher money. I did see a 16 ga. L.C. Smith serial FWS17xxx,(1947) NIB for $3799.00.
As far as what either one is worth, it all depends on what someone wants to pay for it. Both models were made in 12 ga. only. Production ceased in 1971.
Blue Book of Gun Values. Field Grade 98% $700.00, Deluxe 98% $1,000.00
Don't confuse this Deluxe model with the 1913 Deluxe Model that went for $1,000.00, it was the highest priced gun made anywhere, including England.
Last edited by JDW; 12/08/06 09:44 PM.
