Winchester Model 12 "US and Bomb" marked-1947

[RMF]

I’m brand new to the forum and this is my first post; I'm here to learn form you guys . I just picked up an interesting Model 12 that I wanted to show the forum. I came upon this one in a local sale today and the overall condition of the gun was so nice that I couldn't pass it up even with the unfortunate addition of the Cyclone choke added to it at some point in its life.

This Model 12 serial number dates it to 1947. It is 'US and lit bomb' marked on the right side of the receiver. The top of the barrel and receiver has Winchester proofs but no "lit bomb" on the barrel. The stock has no cartouches that I can find. Red stock pad looks original and is of Winchester manufacture. Serial numbers match receiver and front end.

Condition of the overall gun is beautiful and vintage; having the right shade of blue and hue for a commercial gun, as well as texture and feel to the wood. All lines and screw heads are sharp.

I have read on the forum about Model 12's being used for Aerial Gunnery training and perhaps that is what this gun was originally intended to be. Looking at it, it appears that it probably sat in an officer’s club lounge for most of its life. As mentioned previously it has a Cyclone choke manufactured by the Hartford Gun Choke Company installed on it. Not sure if it will come off or even what exists under the choke. The barrel length from front of chamber is to the front of the compensator is 28.5 inches.

The history behind the gun (as told to me) is that it belonged to the former owners Grandfather who acquired it from the military and supposedly had the aftermarket choke installed. I don’ t believe that this is a Klein's Hardware gun as the original Winchester barrel appears to be still there (WP proof).

I realize that the choke on this gun greatly devalues its collectability and knowing that ahead of time, I picked this up for a very good price; so even if the US military heritage adds ‘zero’ value, I still have a beautiful 47' Model 12 from the golden era of Winchester.

If you have any knowledge about this gun history please let me know.

I posted 1024x768 res photos so that they would be clear.. if the forum needs me to resize them smaller I can do that.
Thanks.

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