Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Auction Company is pleased to present this ANTIQUE side-by-side lifter action hammer shotgun for a penny-start auction today; this is the Parker Bros $80 Dollar Grade!
According to the included letter from The Parker Gun Collectors Association, "Parker shotgun, serial number 14234, was ordered by Thomas Larter of Cleveland, OH on December 20, 1882 and shipped on December 21, 1882. According to Parker Bros. Order Book No. 13, it was a $80 Dollar Grade, Lifter Action Hammer Gun, 12-gauge. It featured Damascus steel barrels with a length of 30 inches.
The net price was $40.00.
According to Parker Bros. Order Book No. 22, the gun was returned on January 24, 1888 by Thomas Larter to have a rubber butt on. There was no charge.
Parker Bros., Remington Arms Company Inc. and others repaired and reconfigured guns as a major part of the gun trade. Over the years, this Parker may have undergone changes to suit its owners, either at the factory or other competent facility. Complete factory return and repair records do not exist therefore our research team cannot comment, report, or have any responsibility for work performed. It is important to note that those Parker records remaining are hand written and show considerable fading from their age. The research committee has done its best to interpret and report our findings in answer to this request and assumes no responsibility for the recorded accuracy or other work completed."
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Parker Bros
Model: $80 Dollar Grade
Serial: 14234
Date of Manufacture: 1879
Caliber: 12 Gauge
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 30" Damascus Steel Barrels with RH Cylinder and LH Cylinder Choke
Optics/Sights: Bead Front
Stock/Grips: Checkered Walnut Straight Grip Stock and Forearm
Action: Side-by-Side / Lifter Action Hammer Gun
Markings: Stampings can be seen in pictures 63-79.
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
Parker Bros., a distinguished American firearms manufacturer, established its legacy from 1867 to 1942, producing a total of approximately 242,000 shotguns across various grades. Founded in Meriden, Connecticut, by Charles Parker initially as Parker Snow Co., the company pivoted from producing rifles for the Union Army during the Civil War to crafting shotguns renowned for their craftsmanship and quality. Parker shotguns quickly gained a reputation as some of the finest American firearms, showcased at prestigious expositions such as the Centennial International Exhibition in Philadelphia (1876) and the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago (1893). The company's presence at these events solidified its status as a leading manufacturer in the industry, noted for its innovative designs and superior performance.
Throughout its history, Parker Bros. specialized primarily in break-open style shotguns, predominantly side-by-side double-barreled configurations, although they also produced single-barrel models tailored for trap shooting. The transition from exposed hammer designs to hammerless guns in 1888 marked a significant advancement in firearm technology for Parker, reflecting trends towards more streamlined and safer operations. Parker shotguns were available in a wide range of gauges from 8 to .410, with each gauge offering varying degrees of rarity and collectibility in today’s market. The company distinguished its offerings through different grades, from economical models to high-end versions like the A-1 Special/Invincible, which boasted intricate engraving, premium wood stocks, and superior barrel steel. This tiered pricing strategy ensured that Parker shotguns catered to both practical hunters and discerning collectors seeking heirloom-quality firearms. Remington Arms acquired Parker Bros. in 1934, marking the end of an era for a brand that remains synonymous with excellence in American shotgun manufacturing.
From 1869 to 1875, Parker shotgun production embarked on its early stages without standardized grading, a testament to the innovative yet flexible approach of Parker Brothers. During this period, Parker shotguns lacked formal grade markings, with their features and pricing detailed in advertisements rather than assigned grades. This unconventional approach allowed buyers to customize their shotguns with various features and embellishments, creating a bespoke purchasing experience. The concept of the "Dollar Grade" emerged from this era, where the level of ornamentation and options was dictated by what the buyer was willing to pay. Features such as barrel steel type, checkering patterns, and wood quality varied widely, reflecting the diverse preferences of Parker's clientele. Despite lacking a grading system initially, Parker Brothers' commitment to quality and craftsmanship attracted skilled artisans and innovative minds during the post-Civil War and Industrial Revolution era in America. As the company evolved under the leadership of general manager King, a grading structure gradually emerged, solidifying Parker Brothers' reputation as a premier manufacturer of fine shotguns. Today, categorizing these early Parker guns relies on historical pricing and discernible features, with the term "Dollar Grade" remaining synonymous with Parker's early craftsmanship and customizability.
Contents:
As you can see in the many high-resolution photos, this example is in Great condition overall, showing much less than normal evidence for a gun its age! Additionally, it will ship with the serial matching letter from The Parker Gun Collectors Association.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Model: $80 Dollar Grade
Serial: 14234
Date of Manufacture: 1879
Caliber: 12 Gauge
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 30" Damascus Steel Barrels with RH Cylinder and LH Cylinder Choke
Optics/Sights: Bead Front
Stock/Grips: Checkered Walnut Straight Grip Stock and Forearm
Action: Side-by-Side / Lifter Action Hammer Gun
Markings: Stampings can be seen in pictures 63-79.
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
Parker Bros., a distinguished American firearms manufacturer, established its legacy from 1867 to 1942, producing a total of approximately 242,000 shotguns across various grades. Founded in Meriden, Connecticut, by Charles Parker initially as Parker Snow Co., the company pivoted from producing rifles for the Union Army during the Civil War to crafting shotguns renowned for their craftsmanship and quality. Parker shotguns quickly gained a reputation as some of the finest American firearms, showcased at prestigious expositions such as the Centennial International Exhibition in Philadelphia (1876) and the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago (1893). The company's presence at these events solidified its status as a leading manufacturer in the industry, noted for its innovative designs and superior performance.
Throughout its history, Parker Bros. specialized primarily in break-open style shotguns, predominantly side-by-side double-barreled configurations, although they also produced single-barrel models tailored for trap shooting. The transition from exposed hammer designs to hammerless guns in 1888 marked a significant advancement in firearm technology for Parker, reflecting trends towards more streamlined and safer operations. Parker shotguns were available in a wide range of gauges from 8 to .410, with each gauge offering varying degrees of rarity and collectibility in today’s market. The company distinguished its offerings through different grades, from economical models to high-end versions like the A-1 Special/Invincible, which boasted intricate engraving, premium wood stocks, and superior barrel steel. This tiered pricing strategy ensured that Parker shotguns catered to both practical hunters and discerning collectors seeking heirloom-quality firearms. Remington Arms acquired Parker Bros. in 1934, marking the end of an era for a brand that remains synonymous with excellence in American shotgun manufacturing.
From 1869 to 1875, Parker shotgun production embarked on its early stages without standardized grading, a testament to the innovative yet flexible approach of Parker Brothers. During this period, Parker shotguns lacked formal grade markings, with their features and pricing detailed in advertisements rather than assigned grades. This unconventional approach allowed buyers to customize their shotguns with various features and embellishments, creating a bespoke purchasing experience. The concept of the "Dollar Grade" emerged from this era, where the level of ornamentation and options was dictated by what the buyer was willing to pay. Features such as barrel steel type, checkering patterns, and wood quality varied widely, reflecting the diverse preferences of Parker's clientele. Despite lacking a grading system initially, Parker Brothers' commitment to quality and craftsmanship attracted skilled artisans and innovative minds during the post-Civil War and Industrial Revolution era in America. As the company evolved under the leadership of general manager King, a grading structure gradually emerged, solidifying Parker Brothers' reputation as a premier manufacturer of fine shotguns. Today, categorizing these early Parker guns relies on historical pricing and discernible features, with the term "Dollar Grade" remaining synonymous with Parker's early craftsmanship and customizability.
Contents:
As you can see in the many high-resolution photos, this example is in Great condition overall, showing much less than normal evidence for a gun its age! Additionally, it will ship with the serial matching letter from The Parker Gun Collectors Association.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
Any orders placed with magazines that are not compliant with your state, county, or city regulations will not ship with your order.
