My dad showed me a shotgun of his a couple of years ago that he claimed was owned by Jack O'Connor. He said he couldn't prove it, but swore he bought it on consignment in 1974 from Lolo Sporting Goods for $500. He said he didn't know how Jack got it, but assumed since he was a writer, he was given to him through a magazine or the manufacturer in exchange for some kind words in an article.
My dad then sold the shotgun to a lawyer friend who had it engraved to honor Jack's two favorite bird hunting states; Idaho and Arizona. My dad was upset that the shotgun was engraved and bought it back.
My dad passed in May, and I inherited the beautiful shotgun. I contacted Browning's Historian who agreed to research the shotgun. That was 2-3 months ago.
I just received a letter from Browning verifying that the shotgun was indeed purchased new by Jack O'Connor...
I also reached out to a professional appraiser and dealer who owns O'Connor firearms and has sold many of them over the years. He said due to the engraving, the value was substantially lowered to no more than $10k. It was opined that it could have been worth around $50k.
I am thankful for the "low" value since it means I am not tempted to sell it and instead will actually take it in the field and pass it down as a unique family heirloom.
I am surprised by how many folks these days have never heard of Jack O'Connor, or Elmer Keith, or John Taffin. I own a few fine rifles crafted by Al Biesen, Roger Biesen, and Jim Zahm. Those are also names being lost to time.
It's a shame.