The Browning Auto-5 with serial number 5V 74888 was manufactured in 1965. The “5V” prefix corresponds to the 1965 production year and identifies it as an Auto-5 Magnum 12-gauge model. Browning’s official serial-number information confirms that the Auto-5 serial-number system used date prefixes during this period.
So, as of 2026, this shotgun is approximately 61 years old. For additional confirmation, you can check the markings on the receiver and barrel against Browning’s historical records. The original Answers discussion also identifies this particular serial number as a 1965 Browning Auto-5 Magnum.
If you're trying to determine its exact configuration, condition, or collector value, the gauge, barrel markings, and overall condition would also be useful to know.
You will have to call Browning with the serial number.
You will have to call Browning with the serial number to find out.
Your serial number indicates that you have a 16 gauge Browning auto-5 shotgun that was made in the year 1951.
Your serial number indicates that you have a Browning auto-5 Magnum shotgun that was made in the year 1965.
The manufacture date of a Browning Auto-5 16-gauge depends on its complete serial number and markings. For an accurate date, check Browning’s official serial-number records or contact Browning directly for verification.
On the receiver.
A Browning Auto 5 Lightweight shotgun was made in 1957 with that serial number on it.
Your Browning auto-5,12 gauge shotgun was made in the year 1948,with the serial number 265,711.
The prefix to your serial number of 70z indicates that your Browning auto-5 shotgun was made in the year 1970.
No serial number provided.
No way to answer without the serial number.
You will have to call Browning with the serial number to find out.