OK thanks on the info but there has been uninteresting turn of events. And I will have to do some more research. And consideration of what I'm going to do next if anything.
I bought this particular model 12 a couple of days ago. I didn't pay a premium price because of the stock issue.
Upon detailed inspection under good light I found a name engraved lightly on the side of the receiver.
The name is Roland Kirkby. Under the name was Burlington Express. Doing research on Mr. Kirkby, He went to High School in Burlington, WA and was a star football player in the late 40's. He was part of a group of guys on the foot ball team called the Burlington Express. There is even a scholarship named after him. Because of the year of manufacture I'm thinking the shotgun was given to him as part of some award he recieved after graduation.
Mr. Kirkby played for the Washington Huskies and his jersey # 44 was retired. OK so I live in Washington St and have no idea how this shotgun came to the store I bought it from other than it was sold on consignment. I guess I will go back to the shop and let them know about this. I'm sure it was missed because it is engraved very lightly and one needs a strong light to read it. Keep in mind I bought a K98 from this store and they missed the Nazi Proof marks. So I'm not really surprised.
As for being a collector, I would think the market would be small. I'm thinking it would be more as a conservation piece. I bought it as a stable mate to my model 11 in 16 ga. Just for fun. Tim
