WW2 Wincheser M12 Riot shotgun on Gunbroker

[1stRaider]

Have bid on this shotgun as I've always wanted a nice WW2 shotgun. However the more I look at it the more I wonder of the originality. The metal appears mint and the blued finish looks factory from the photos just based on the quality of the finish, although I realize it's just a photo. In his description he seems convinced it's right on but was thinking of asking a few questions about it before increasing my bid. My main concern is the lack of stock cartouches. Was wondering what the experts think about this?

Thanks!

Winchester Model 12 WWII Riot Shotgun, Exc., WOW : Curios & Relics at GunBroker.com

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[Tom Doniphon]

The stock should be cartouched. So it's either been replaced or sanded. There also appears to be a punch mark on the top of the barrel next to the Winchester proof mark. That could indicate a rebuild. If the finish is original, there should be burnishing around the Winchester proof marks on the barrel and receiver and around the flaming bomb on the barrel.