Beautiful gun! There isn't a lot of shooter interest in muzzle loading double barrelled shotguns in Canada, even one bearing a famous name. In this case most of the interest, and the value, is based on the Purdey name. Some things to consider...........
Original quality = excellent, this was a prime example of the guns being turned out by the best London makers of this time.
Current condition = very good, perhaps 7-8/10 overall subject to barrel measurements and lock inspection.
Brand recognition = The name Purdey commands maximum weight among collectors.
Provenance = none, original owner is not stated. However, Purdey records may turn up something interesting.
Exclusivity/ originality = minmal within it's type. This is a very standard design of the period with no exclusive features.
Condition notes - the barrels ( at least) have been refinished as evidenced by the engraving of the name and address on the top rib having been over polished and washed out. This suggests that the remaider of the barrel surfaces recieved the same treatment, somewhat thinning the barrels and possibly introducing surface ripples. The bores are described as perfect, 'cherry' and if so have certainly been rebored to remove pitting and staining, again thinning the barrels. The current inside measurements of those barrels compared to the proof measurements applied when new ( stamped on the bottom sides, breech end) have an important effect on the value of this gun. Of equal or more importance is the minimum wall thickness of these tubes now. If they have been honed and polished too thin they are vulnerable to casual dents and may even be unsafe to shoot. Nobody wants a gun with paper thin barrels. These two factors can't be casually estimated, they must be accurately measured with specific tools for the job by someone with experience in this. Because the barrels have been nicely refinished, the whole gun has probably recieved the same treatment, close examination would show how much was done.
On any antique, original condition, the more the better is most highly prized and so this gun falls a little short on this point even though it is still very nice. For someone who wants to brag that they have a Purdey, the minimum value in Canada today would probably be around $2000-2500. If the barrels and locks checked out well this could double the value to a serious collector. If it turned out that it was owned by some famous person ( not really likely) it will add value as well.
