Hopkins & Allen

Question
I have a 20 gauge(I believe) Hopkins and Allen. I was wondering if anyone had info on this.  Its a single shot, serial #Z8628. the barrel has the same serial #. any idea about the year and value? the gun is really old It would be interesting if I could find out the original owner if that possible

thanks,
Ben

Answer
Hello Ben.
  First off, you just didn't give enough information on your shotgun. It is, however, very simple to get a date range. If it says "HOPKINS&ALLEN MANUFACTURING CO." it was made between 1868 and 1898. If it says "HOPKINS&ALLEN ARMS CO." it was made from 1899 to 1915. The value, in very good condition, is around $100. If it in poor condition, about $35.
  You ask about finding out who the original owner was. Since this shotgun sold new from $8-$12, it must have been a person who valued the dependability of the gun, rather than the name brand. I wish I could tell you of a way to find out, but since it was sold by a dozen or more hardware stores, including Montgomery Wards and Sears & Roebuck, it would be next to impossible (nothing is impossible) to find this out. Also, take into consideration that all a person had to do to buy a gun back then, was put the money on the counter and say "I'll take that one."
  I strongly suggest that you not shoot it. Clean it up and hang it on the wall. It deserves that much.
  I hope this has helped. I wish I could help more, and thank you for asking for me. Charles Gage