12 gauge shotgun

Question
Hi Doug i just bought a shotgun at a yard sale this morning and was wondering what age or value it might have and if i paid to much.  All i know is its a 12 gauge and it belonged to his father, he said he remembers them hunting with it the first time maybe 45-50 years ago, but did not know if his father bought it new or if it was handed down to him the only markings i can find is EXCEL and then the number looks to start with f 61887xe  any idea what i just bought for $65.00 ?? thank you Cathy

Answer
Hi Cathy,

Excel was a brand name used by Iver Johnson for a line of shotguns they made between around 1910-1963.  If it is in decent shape and shootable, they are probably worth between $50-$75 depending on the condition.

You might want to have a gunsmith look it over prior to shooting it to make sure it is OK to shoot.  They should not charge you too much to take a look at it.

The serial number records are very poor from Iver Johnson...so I can't tell anything from that...

Hope this helps...

Doug