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Make: Parker Brothers
Model: Grade D2 Hammerless
Serial Number: 91303
Year of Manufacture: 1899
Gauge: 12Ga. 2 3/4” Chamber
Action Type: Box-Lock Break-Open Side by Side Double Shotgun with Extractor.
Markings: The water table is marked with 1889 patent dates and “2 / 91303 G”. The bottom tang is marked with the serial number. The bottom of the frame is engraved with a pair of pheasants, the left side has a pair of ducks and “PARKER BROS”, and the right side has a pair of grouse and “PARKER BROS”. The top tang is marked, “SAFE”. The barrel rib is marked, “PARKER BROS MAKERS. MERIDAN CONN. DAMASCUS STEEL”. All serialized parts are matched to the frame.
Barrel Length: 30”
Choke: Fixed, Improved Modified, Improved Modified.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass bead set on top of the serrated rib.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two piece checkered walnut set with a pull tab capped splinter forend, capped semi-pistol grip, raised straight comb, and checkered plastic buttplate with the Parker Bros. logo. There are light handling marks throughout. The checkering has smooth peaks. There are no chips, but there is a crack at the wrist. The LOP measures 14" from the front of the trigger to the rear of the buttplate. Overall the stocks are in Good as refinished. The stock has a neutral cast, the drop at comb is 1 5/8", the drop at heel is 2 3/8".
Type of Finish: Oil Dipped Crolle Pattern Damascus, Case Color
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: Both bores are bright with some faint scratch lines. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate a 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 10% of its metal finish. The receiver retains a few small spots of case color. Most of the oil finish has been lost with some remaining on the underside. There are spots of patina throughout. The screw heads are lightly tooled. The markings are worn in spots. Overall, this shotgun is in Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: This Parker Brothers Grade D2 hammerless side-by-side shotgun is a beautiful example of late 19th to early 20th-century American gunmaking. Manufactured in 1899, this shotgun represents one of Parker’s most popular mid-grade offerings, featuring striking Crolle Damascus barrels, intricate engraving, and the hallmark craftsmanship that earned Parker its reputation as “The Old Reliable.” The D2 grade (also referred to as Grade 2) was a working gentleman’s field gun—well-embellished, but still intended for use in the field. This example is equipped with 30” Damascus barrels marked for Improved Modified chokes on both sides—an unusual and versatile configuration. The rib is marked with the correct “PARKER BROS MAKERS. MERIDEN CONN. DAMASCUS STEEL” legend, and the bores are impressively clean for a gun of this age—bright with no erosion and only faint scratch lines, rating a 9.5/10. The original case color has faded to patina, with some spots remaining visible, particularly on the underside of the receiver. The engraving remains sharp and features classic Parker scenes—ducks, pheasants, and grouse—on both sides of the frame. The wood has been tastefully refinished and retains crisp contours and smooth checkering with only light wear and a single crack at the wrist. The stock shows a slight right-hand cast and classic dimensions for a vintage field gun, with a 14" length of pull, 1 5/8” drop at comb, and 2 3/8” drop at heel. The forend still retains its original pull tab and matching serial numbers throughout confirm this is a fully matched gun. Mechanically, the action locks up tightly, the extractor functions properly, and all controls—including the top lever and safety—operate as intended. While modern ammunition should never be used in Damascus-barreled guns without proper inspection and low-pressure loads, this Parker is a superb candidate for careful black powder or low-pressure smokeless shooting.
For collectors and vintage shotgun enthusiasts, this Parker D2 Grade offers everything: matching numbers, clear engraving, beautiful Damascus barrels, and elegant period charm. Whether you intend to add it to a high-grade American doubles collection or simply admire it for its artistry and legacy, this shotgun embodies the golden age of American sporting arms.