Browning Automatic Light 12 Questions

[shawnr72]

My brother wanted me to check into a gun he has and I am looking for more specifics on this gun. The gun was marked with "Made In Belgium"

I have included photos of markings on gun in two locations.

Can anyone fill me in to whatever these marking mean for year made, serial number, and any other items about gun.

Thanks for your help.

 

[PetahW]

The first set of marks are proof marks.

The year of manufacture can only be found via the serial number/code.

.

 

[shawnr72]

Where can I find the serial number?

What do the other marks mean then?

 

[Steven Mace]

shawnr72, the serial number should be stamped on the bottom of the receiver just behind the forearm and forward of the of open area with the carrier. You should be able to determine the year of manufacture by visiting the link below.

http://www.browning.com/customerservice/dategun/detail.asp?id=13

Hope this helps!

Steve Mace

 

[shawnr72]

The second photo from original post is from the bottom of the gun just behind the opening that goes to the chamber. It was stamped L783. Based on the information from Browning site it appears that this would have been produced in 1954 - 1955 and light series and number 783 of 83000.

Am I reading this correct?

Any idea on value of the gun for insurance purposes?

Thanks again for all the help.

 

[PetahW]

"IF" that is the serial number, then that would denote a 1953 manufacture - the first year for the Light Twelve.

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[shawnr72]

Any idea on a rough approximate value?