Meriden single shot 12 ga?

crisfield3

Inactive
I recently received my great grandfather's single shot breakaway 12 gauge shotgun. Unlike all of the other Meriden shotguns I have seen, it is just a single shot and has a hammer. The serial number is 18096. Can anyone help me with its origin, value, anything? Thanks
 
The Meriden Firearms Company was based in Meriden, Connecticut. The Company manufactured shotguns, rifles, and revolvers circa 1907-09, and was a subsidiary of Sears, Roebuck & Company.

As to the monetary value of your gun, I cannot tell you much except that single-shot shotguns with exposed hammers were once very common. Key factors in determining a shotgun's value are its manufacturer, model, grade, features, gauge, choke, barrel length, overall condition, completeness (i.e., no missing parts), and availability or rarity.

The question of the true value of your shotgun lies with you. Were I so lucky as to have a shotgun that once belonged to my great-grandfather I would consider it to be priceless.

As to the usability of the gun, my best recommendation is to have it thoroughly vetted, paying particular attention to the barrel, by a competent gunsmith before any attempt is made to fire it.

Good luck, and good shooting!
 
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