W. S . Paragon Shotgun

Question
Sid,
I have a shotgun, 16ga 28in. barrel with full choke single shot. On the right side of the gun is stamped {Model W.S.},On the left side is stamped { Paragon }. The serial No. is {A56158} just behind the trigger guard.Can you please tell me who made this gun,and about how much it mite be worth? I would greatly appreciate your help on this, as it was givin to me by a good Friend who passed away some years ago.Thank you so much for your time. Jay C. Smith  

Answer
Jay,

Based upon your description and information available I believe that you may actually have a shotgun that was made by the Baker Gun & Forging Co. which was founded in 1890.

They manufactured both single and double barrel shotguns and were known for their strength and reliability. They were made in many grades from very plain to to fancy.

The company was sold in 1919 to H&D Folsom Arms Co. of Norwich, Conn.  The Folsom Co. then manufactured these for the Baker Co. until around 1923. Late model Bakers were made by Crescent Arms and have a "F" suffix serial number.

They manufactured over two dozen models with one model being the "Paragon" grade and if indeed this ID is correct, in "good" condition the gun would have a value of around $1200.

Please understand that the above is based upon the info provided and without my being able to personally inspect the gun. If you want to make certain of what you have and the value (as in if you ever want to sell etc.) I suggest that you have a qualified appraisal done by a person who can inspect the gun in question.

I hope this helps and thanks for the question Jay.
Sid Lark