I also have a Lefever Nitro Special 12 guage, serial #337... which was made between 1936 and 1937, and it's also a single trigger (which I think is rare). Yours was made around 1929. While these are not expensive guns, they are considered high grade American made shot guns and they still shoot great to this day. Lefever made some of America's most collected shotguns as did the Ithaca Gun Company which made your gun. But the double guns made by the Lefever Arms Company are much more rare and much more valuable. They can sell for thousands, and even hundreds of thousands for some of the rarest. The Ithaca Gun Company made about 236,000 Nitro Specials between 1921 and 1948 after they acquired the Lefever name. They came in different gauges but the most common was the 12 gauge with a double trigger. If it were a 16 gauge, it would be worth about 20% more. I'm not sure how much the single trigger adds if anything. Mine is in good to very good condition and I think it's worth around $450. The fact that yours is older should not make much of a difference. The determining factor is the condition. If you do a little research on the internet you can find out everything you need to know about determining the condition and value of your gun. That's what I did after I inherited mine and I've been an admirer of collectable side by sides ever since.
The Lefever was mfg. in 1935.
The Lefever Nitro special shotgun was made from 1921-1948.During this time frame the lefever shotguns were owned by the Ithaca Firearms Company.The price range of your shotgun if it has between 60%-90% of its original factory finish remaining is from 300-450 dollars.I hope you find this info helpful.
The best that I can do is say that the Lefever Nitro special was made from 1921-1948.
1927
On a Lefever Nitro Special shotgun, the serial number is typically found on the underside of the receiver, near the trigger guard. It may also be located on the barrel, often on the side or the top, depending on the specific model. If you’re having trouble finding it, checking the owner's manual or consulting a gunsmith may help.
It is found under the breach below the barrel
Ithaca bought Lefever and that gun is the Lefever Nitro Special. My gun has a pointer on it and 2 ivory beads, one midway on barrel. Also my gun has a rosewood stock on it. Special made gun for somebody. Lefever gun had ducks flying over a marsh on receiver.
To determine the age of a Lefever Arms Co. 12 gauge double barrel Nitro Special with serial number 261016, you can reference production records or databases specific to Lefever firearms. Generally, Lefever Nitro Specials were produced from the early 1900s until 1948, so your shotgun is likely from that era. For a more precise date, consulting specific Lefever serial number charts or an expert in antique firearms would be beneficial.
Your Lefever Nitro special will range in price from 300-450 dollars,based on your shotgun having between 60%-90% of its original finish remaining and a good set of bores.
The value of a 1936 Lefever Nitro Special double barrel shotgun can vary widely based on its condition, originality, and specific features such as engraving. Generally, such firearms can range from $800 to $2,500, with higher values for those in excellent condition or with unique engraving. It's advisable to consult a firearms appraiser or auction house for a more precise valuation based on the specific details of your shotgun.
This was apparently prior to the acquisition of Lefever by Ithaca, since it appears that the first Ithaca Lefever serial numbers contain 6 digits (Lefever Nitro Special - 1921)
The Lefever Nitro Special is a classic American-made double-barrel shotgun, known for its robust construction and reliability. Produced in the early to mid-20th century, it features a side-by-side configuration and is chambered for 12-gauge shells. Renowned for its affordability and solid performance, it was popular among hunters and sport shooters. Collectors appreciate its vintage design and the craftsmanship characteristic of the Lefever brand.