According to research carried out several years ago by Eley; only 3.2% approx; of British shotguns were made in 16G.[As a matter of interest the same 3.2% also applies to 20G].
The 16G has never been popular with British sportsmen.Webley and Scott offered a 16G in their 700 series of shotguns ,the price for the 16&12G was the same!
In past times the 16G shotguns in the U.K.was difficult to sell.During the 1960- 1990 period they could be purchased for 60-75% of a 12G of similar condition/type/make.
In recent years several dealers in the U.S.A have taken to listing the 16G along with .410,28G & 20G as a,"Small Bore" with prices escalated accordingly.
I for one would not pay premium for a 16G over a 12G to gain a weight reducion of 5-6 ozs.This logic may not apply to a collector.
