A few years ago I picked up a great looking shotgun from the collection of a family friend who passed away. After a lengthy bit of research I now know what I have.
I have a Francottte No. 2 that was likely built between 1897 and 1898. The gun was imported by VL&D. Following is a description of it's features as sold by Francotte:
No. 2 – This model was a hammerless non-ejector shotgun similar to the model No. 1 except that the action was built with intercepting sears and had more extensive engraving. Barrels were available with “Hardened Damascus” or Siemen-Martin steel. Most of the grade No. 2 Francotte’s were 12 gauge guns with 30 inch barrels, however, there were a handful of 16 and 20 gauge guns and at least two 10 gauge and two 28 gauge guns in inventory between 1901 and 1905. The last of this model was received at VL&D in October 1905. Weight for 12 gauge guns was between 6 pounds, 8 ounces and 8 pounds. Retail price was $100 for the 12, 16, and 20 gauge guns.”
Apparently the No. 2 was dropped in 1910 and replaced with the No. 14. My understanding from some very detailed and kind correspondence with an historian on the subject (Bob Beach) is that the No. 14 was very similar but included automatic ejectors.
Below is a link to my flickr page where i have pictures of the gun. I've not shot it and would like to sell it. As you might imagine, there just aren't a lot of these guns on the market so even after three years of owning it I can't get any feel at all for how much I might ask for this gun.
I wanted to ask those who may have some experience in this market: what is this type of gun, in this condition worth?
Lots of detailed pictures are at the two links below:
francotte 1 Francotte 2 
