SMITH, L.C.

The L.C. Smith sidelock shotgun with its famous rotary locking bolt is considered an "American Best" and is recognized as one of America's most prestigious and collectible shotguns. Recently released records indicate that L.C. Smith sold more medium to high grade models than Parker Bros., and collector interest has been very high. The Blue Book of Antique American Firearms & Values strongly recommends an expert appraisal when contemplating a purchase of a higher grade L.C. Smith, particularly in 90%+ original condition. L.C. Smith shotguns with a second set of barrels and forend serial numbered to the gun (1 and 2) with matching serial numbers and forends are valued at 60% more if they were made at the factory when the shotgun was built. A second set of barrels will add 40% to the value if the shotgun was sent back to the factory to be fitted with the second set. Guns that are mechanically factory original, but have been expertly restored (barrels, receivers, and wood) are of less interest to collectors. Therefore, these expertly restored guns should be valued at 80% of the highest value listed for a particular grade in this section, assuming the restored gun exhibits little, if any, wear. Values are dependent upon grade and craftsmanship and are not included in these suggested values.
The L.C. Smith Collectors Association offers a variety of services as well as a quarterly collector's journal. Readers may reach the organization through the website: www.lcsca.clubexpress.com. The L.C. Smith Collectors Association has records and can provide research letters for the following L.C. Smith and Hunter Arms Co. shotguns: Hunter Arms Company factory records 1890-1918, production and shipping records 1918-1946 (including Ranger, Fulton, Gladiator, and Hunter Special shotguns), L.C. Smith Gun Co. records 1946-1950 ("FWS" prefix), and Marlin records 1968-1971 (Field Grade and Deluxe Model). Information in the letters includes original configuration; complete manufacture and shipping dates; number in each grade, barrel length, and configuration; description of engraving and special features; retail price; and calculated price in 2018 dollars. Price is $50 for members and $75 for non-members.
For more information on models/variations manufactured after Dec. 31, 1898, please refer to the Blue Book of Gun Values. Also available online - please visit bluebookofgunvalues.com.
Additionally, factory L.C. Smith letters can be obtained from the Cody Firearms Museum located in Cody, WY. The cost is $70 for non-members or $20-$40 for members, depending on the level of membership. These letters indicate the original configuration of the shotgun when it left the factory. However, they do not guarantee originality. Also please contact the Cody Firearms Museum directly for more information on this service (refer to listing in Trademark Index).
A letter of authentication increases the value of any grade from any era by a minimum of $100. The price guide in this book is based on the remaining percentage of original case color finish. Original bold, vivid case colors will command a substantial premium on most grades.