Identifying & Valuing a Vintage Browning Auto-5 Shotgun (1946)

Question
QUESTION: I have an Auto 5 that my father bought in 1946. I would like to know the year it was made and the value. On the left side of the receiver it says B42512, It also has a picture of a man and it says trade mark. On the left side of the barrel it has a picture of a heart and the letters BP and says special-steel 12 gauge 2 3/4"

ANSWER: Salvatore,

I am away from home for a little while and will try to get back with you when I have the information in front of me. Thanks.

Jim

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: just wondering if you had a chance to look this up for me.

Thank You, Sal

Answer
Salvatore,

Your 12 gauge is an "American Browning" produced between 1940-1947 in the U.S. due to WWII. I recommend you find the Browning Auto-5 book by H.M. Shirley and Anthony Vanderlinden. It is very interesting to read regarding the Auto 5's history.

Jim