Winchester Model 12 Gray Receiver

Question
I have a Winchester Mdl. 12 ga. SN 788XXX (1939) that has a definite gray-colored receiver that, by all indications, is the original finish showing a sharp cartouche.  Was there an "experimental" finish of some sort?

Answer
Hi John.

I am not an expert on Win. Model 12 shotguns but I haven't heard of any experimental finishes before.  Some black or blued finishes can look gray depending on how they were cleaned and maintained.

The blue book should confirm which options were available from the factory in addition to telling you the aproximate value.  Here is the link to download the Winchester shotgun section for $10 from the publisher or you can buy the printed book for $35 in any local major book store:

https://store.bluebookinc.com/download/SalesPageSplitCategory.aspx?product=GUN&id=1086

Hope this helps!

Bob