Even though your gun appears to be plainer than the normal E Grade, it may actually be an E Grade because the 10,000 series E Grades are very plain with only little rosettes of scroll and only lines otherwise. 16 gauge rod cockers are a bit scarce but I don't know how scarce. Maybe someone will view the LACA serial number list to tell this poster how many 16s precede his in reported guns. 16 gauge E Grade #9568 seems to be the earliest serial number of a rod cocker, pivot lever that is not a prototype or otherwise odd gun like a three barrel. By the way, E Grade 16 #9568 doesn't even have scroll rosettes, only nicely engraved screws and borders. Between 9568 and your gun, there couldn't have been many 16s when you consider the popularity of tens and twelves. In clean operative condition, with good barrels, the price mentioned sounds reasonable. If you can post a picture, the E or F question may be cleared up immediately. Bill Murphy
