It was made around 1923. Price depends mainly on condition & configuration. Choke, vent rib, solid rib, gauge, wood grain, etc can affect the price GREATLY! I paid $1500 for mine, but it is in great shape, has excellent wood and the more valuable vent rib. Send pics to thewb_3@Yahoo.com and I can give you a better estimate.
Second hand in v.good condition £650.
A natural diamond is more rare than a manufactured diamond.
Mined diamonds are more valuable than manufactured diamonds, as gemstones. This may not be a consideration for you, in which case, you would own a manufactured diamond.
The Winchester page puts the date at 1925 and the E stands for Black Diamond.
'Better' is a judgement, and you are the judge. Both diamonds are diamonds made of carbon. A manufactured diamond is less expensive that a mined/ natural diamond.
Made around 1908, give or take a couple. Winchester 97's were offered with different options, grades and features that all have an effect on value. Originality and condition are the other important factors. Therefore, without seeing the gun, it is impossible to guesstimate the value with what little information you have provided. Suffice to say that complete and functioning 1897's will bring $300. Scarce models such as Black Diamond Trap gun in excellent condition will bring several thousand. sales@countrygunsmith.net
One in "NRA EXCELLENT" condition sold for $102.00 in an auction that had 23 bidders this year (2008).
the only thing that can cut a diamond is a diamond
Manufactured diamonds are fashioned from the mineral carbon, just like natural diamonds.
The rifle is worth $1100.00 at 100% condition. $350.00 at 60% condition. This price is for the diamond weave checkering. The basket weave checkering is worth about $200.00 less money. If it is the carbine (barrel band and no checkering) add a couple of hundred dollars.
This is a diamond manufactured from carbon in a lab, under intense high pressure and extreme high heat.
A white diamond is unique as it is very rare to find in nature. They can be manufactured, but these can easily be distinguished. This makes the white diamond very expensive.