Hello!
This is my first post, I’m hoping someone can help me solve some mysteries by helping to decode and interpret some of the proof marks and other markings on a very interesting antique shotgun from across the pond. I’m not sure how to attach pictures to the post from my phone, I’m happy to email pictures if that would help with identification.
It’s a hammered, side by side, cartridge shotgun, with 30” Damascus barrels. It appears to be of higher quality and has lots of engraving. It’s marked “A. Allan. Glasgow.” on the top rib of the barrels.
I took off the barrels and using the Standard Directory of Proof Marks, was able to recognize provisional proof marks from Birmingham, and “NOT FOR BALL” which helps date it between 1875 and 1887. It appears that the barrels get larger at the muzzle as it is marked: “13B” and “14M”, which I believe are for bore and muzzle measurements. I’m I correct in thinking that 13 would be the gauge of the barrels for ammunition selection? The underside of the barrel near the proof marks is also normally where I look to verify the gauge, and this one is clearly marked “13”. I was able to find a few examples of antique guns that were 13ga but they were muzzle loaders or breach loading pin-fire. Am I correct in thinking that 13ga is rare? I wasn’t able to find an antique ammo supplier yet (or even a company that makes brass hulls) for 13ga.
There was also a marking “J.A” on the barrels near the proof marks which I was able to determine is Joseph Asbury, of Birmingham.
This is the first antique Scottish shotgun that I’ve come across so it was an easy decision to purchase it and give it the attention it deserves.
Any help with additional information or knowledge would be greatly appreciated!!
Thank you!
