1958 Browning

Question
Mr. Reeves,

My father has a Diana grade Browning (with matching field and skeet barrels) which dates to 1958. About ten years ago it was dropped in a bay during a duck hunt and left for some months.(unable to be recovered immediately)
About 4 years ago we had this gun fully restored, wood, and engraving. Since this gun is obviously not original, rebluing, french grey on action, and American black walnut stocks for both barrel sets, how would this gun now be valued?
The stocks cuts are exact replicas of the originals as is the hand checking. All of the engraving was only "chased" not totally redone.

  Any input would be great.
                           Thanks,
                                  -Aaron

Answer
Aaron,

An interesting story. The feeling of dropping the shotgun in the bay must have been overwhelming. Looking back not so bad and a memory not to be forgotten.

As far as value, it is difficult to say for sure. Depending upon the gauge (assuming a 12 gauge), I would expect it to bring 50-65% less than an original shotgun. If you are selling it, I would be upfront with the potential buyers and let them know what has happened.

I would look at the Blue Book of Gun Values, Gunsamerica.com, Gunbroker.com and get a cost average for original shotguns in the same configuration. Then I would probably start an asking price of about 35% less from there and begin taking offers. You never know what might be offered. Another option is to keep the shotgun and enjoy shooting it and keeping it in the family with the memories it comes with. Hope this helps.

Jim