Need advice on a very old gun.

WVCritter · 05-11-2011, 06:21 PM

I have an opportunity to purchase a Hollenbeck 3 barrel shotgun. I believe it's a 12 gauge SxS over a 30/40 caliber and it's in very good condition. It has Damascus barrels and from what I've learned it was made between 1901 and 1903 in Wheeling, West Virginia. It has nice engraving and even comes with the original carrying case which is in not very good shape. All serial numbers match. The only thing I see wrong with it is a very small dent in one of the barrels on the outside but it's not noticeable inside. All 3 bores are very clean. Any guesses on how much it's worth?

8mm/06 · 05-12-2011, 01:49 PM

I'd guess anywhere from $500.00 to $1700.00 depending on it's condition, grade, and whether it's been fiddled with or not. are you sure about the rifle barrel being 30/40? Most Hollenbeck drillings were in 32/40.

WVCritter · 05-12-2011, 05:49 PM

8mm/06,You are correct on the rifle caliber. It is a 32-40. It's in great shape and it belongs to a friend of mine. It was passed down from his great grandfather and he doesn't care anything at all about guns. I'm not a collector and really don't have any use for it but it is a beautiful gun. He told me he had it appraised and was offered $1500 but he wanted me to have it because he knew I'd keep it rather than sell it for a profit.

scottb3472 · 05-12-2011, 08:34 PM

Previous manufacturer located in Whelling, WV circa 1901-1903, Moundsville, WV circa 1903-1910.
The Hollenbeck Gun Company began circa 1901, moved to Moundsville, WV in 1903 and stayed until they went out of business in 1910. The company name changed in 1905 to The Three Barrel Gun Company (circa 1905-1909), and then to The Royal Gun Company (circa 1909-1910). The company made a total of approx. 1,500 three barrel guns, as well as a few SxS models. After going out of business, an unknown Florida man bought the name and all the assets. He assembled and sold some three barrel guns as late as 1930.
Pricing on these three-barrel shotguns with unique, sculpted recoil shields in average original condition typically ranges from $950 - $1,500 for both damascus (most common) and steel barrels. There were two basic grades - 0 and 1, but there are also shotguns with more elaborate engraving which will command a premium.
Information appears courtesy of AntiqueGuns.com and the Gurnmeister.

WVCritter · 06-02-2011, 09:01 PM

I am now the proud owner of this shotgun.

Hairtrigger · 06-03-2011, 02:54 AM

How about pics?!!?

WVCritter · 06-09-2011, 04:57 PM

Here ya go.

Bible_Man · 06-13-2011, 09:53 AM

That is a beauty for sure! Congrats.