value/age of Mossberg

bwa

I have a Mossberg .410 bolt action shotgun, 3" chamber, Mod. #83B. Barrel has some surface rust which could be rather easily removed and the barrel reblued, stock has been refinished(oil). This gun belonged to my grandfather, which means it is at least 50 years old, but very likely closer to 70 or 80. Anyone know an approximate value and age?Thanks for your time!

robsguns

I have a ref. for a 83D, but not B. You are right about it being old. It was changed from model 83, regardless of the letter suffix, to the model 183 in 1947. Value of the 83D is $100.00. Its description is .410, 3 shot, 2 shell fixed-top loading mag., 23" bbl., with 2 interchangeable choke tubes(M/F). Later production has 24" bbl. Made 1940-71. Hopes this helps.The value of your gun would be probably about half of the above value, as that is the value of one in excellent condition, and original, which yours is not original, and in what would probably be termed fair to good condition. $50.00 would be a fair offer for it, but a collector would maybe say its worth less. Personally I wouldnt sell it for less than $75.00, cause I figure any bolt action, functioning shotgun, is worth that much, if its mine.

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SSgt Ryan E. Roberts, USMC[This message has been edited by robsguns (edited 02-24-2002).]

bwa

Thanks for your help, SSgt. Roberts!