DickS said:It is my opinion that you have an American Fur Company trade gun, Belgian made, simulating a Barnett of the HBC.
If it were mine, I would do no "restoration", but would stabilize what is there to prevent future deterioration.
As you are aware, these things are uncommon in any condition, the survival rate being extremely low.
Agreed, that its a great gun and agreed that its likely Belgian. Note the the backwards P in the faux London proof marks. Also, the inspectors mark looks like JA whereas, the English guns produced for AFC were usually stamped IA (I = A in ye olde English). The fact that its likely Belgian and not English does not negatively affect what its worth. As Dick said, AFC NW guns are pretty uncommon. It's a piece I would be proud to own. As far as restoration, I pretty much do nothing to it. Anything you did would probably reduce its value. As it is, the gun tells a story to your hands when you pick it up. Restoration would take away the smell of the campfires and sweaty horse blankets that you feel as though you can smell when you hold it.
Sean