Iver Johnson - Champion question

[Tarheel59]

We have an old Iver Johnson Champion 12ga that has been in the family for several years. It has a hand stamped "HBTB" on each of the major parts (Forearm wood, lump under the barrel, and the bottom of the receiver.

Does anyone have an idea of what this could be or do you think it is just an ownership mark that one of the previous owners put on it to either keep the parts of a particular gun together or show ownership???

Thanks in advance!

Tarheel59

 

[thallub]

Iver Johnson used letters in place of the serial number.

 

[Tarheel59]

Wow that was quick? Is there a reference available to help me date the gun?

 

[.45 COLT]

According to my notes, your gun was made in September of 1956.

DC

 

[Tarheel59]

Thanks for the help - that's what I wanted to know.....