It looks like forged steel and not Damascus or rolled steel from the early 1900's. It may not be as old as you think.

 

Google search results show it is a trade name for shotguns sold by Shapleigh Hardware of St Louis and Sears. Originally produced by a company in Belgium then later by Crescent Arms. If in new condition maybe $200. If used but working condition maybe $100 per an antique arms site.

 

From the research I did I found that the value is base on the condition but the value range from 150-300 dollars and it really depends on the condition and looking at the pictures and if the wood aint cracked or damaged in any way and the bore is nice and shiny I would feel comfortable in giving about 200 dollars if I had the money.

 

I know where there is another here in St. Louis. I would like seconds on it if you don't end up buying it!

 

Stevens supposedly made shotguns for St. Louis Arms and this gun looks very similar to a Stevens 311, but not exactly. Stevens had a manufacture date code that began in 1949, but I didn't see that although the pictures don't show all the locations for the date stamp. This shotgun has a serial number and I don't think that Stevens put one on their 311 models until 1969. So, I guess now you know a little more about Stevens 311's, but no more about your shotgun. Sorry.

 

That's a nice looking double barrel. Give him whatever your heart tells you...both of you will benefit.

I really like those older double barrels..!!

 

Look under the barrels for proof marks. That will tell you if it was Belgium made. The wood appears to be European Walnut to me and I like the semi-pistol grip. The barrels were "BORED BY SKILLED MECHANICS". In the late 19th and early 20th century a machinist was referred to as a mechanic so that may help date it. I would guess $300 to $400 would be fair. There is a shotgun forum but I have lost my old bookmarks but maybe a search would produce it. Good Luck to your friend.

 

Steve_In, I have looked every where, under everything. The marks I showed you are the ONLY marks on the gun. I even used a magnifying glass to help look for proof marks, etc.

 

Sparky I sent you a PM.

 

Happy ending.
This old double barrel is headed back to St Louis to another Marlin Owner.

 

Billy I doubt that it is made in Belgium then with out proof marks. There were several American makers that would private label shotguns back then. Be interesting to find out Who.