You will need to call Colt
You find a published list of serial numbers for the maker.
To find your Winchester model 1897 serial number you need to look on the gun. You also can take it to a local gun dealer who can help find the number.
Try Proofhouse.com
Look up the serial number.
You find a book with serial number information and look it up. You find a book with serial number information and look it up.
Would need name and model of gun to answer.
Look on the butt or the frame.
IF YOU CAN REMOVE THE HANDLE THE SERIAL NUMBER SHOULD BE THERE. YOU CAN TAKE THE GUN TO YOUR LOCAL POLICE DEPARTMENT AND HAVE THE GUN REGISTERED OR SEE IF THEY HAVE A PROGRAM WERE THEY BUY THE GUN.
1 - find serial number on weapon 2- find book with serial number data for weapon you have.
Get the serial number Get a book on the comapany that has Serial Number data or a book that has serial number data, i.e., Blue Book of Gun Values.
You need to provide the serial number.