Raimey,
My vocabulary may be lacking the most descriptive terms but I'll do my best. The blueing is generally pretty good for a gun this old. Where it is worn mostly is about a 20 inch length starting right at the breech end. The wear is specifically on the left and right sides of the respective barrels, not the top or bottom. And where it is worn, the wear is different. In some spots it looks like it was rubbed with steel wool. In others its just blotchy. But I am reaching in these descriptions. Mostly, I just want to say it doesn't look normal.
Too late to take any pictures of the forend or anything else as it is dark and I need outdoor light to get a decent shot. Will try for that tomorrow.
I believe I can see what you are suggesting may be a "C" adjacent to the "Eagle" "Crown" over "S" and feel pretty strongly that it is not a stamp, just scratches.
No sign of stamps or serial numbers on the forend. Might it be on the metal but hidden by the wood?
Also, when we had the lock-plates off at my gunsmith's when I was buying the gun, I wasn't looking for stamps. I don't feel competent to remove the plates myself, so won't. Next time I am seeing my gunsmith I will bring the gun, have him remove the plates and have a look. Will also be sure to have my camera with me.
Regards,
James
