So…. I’m working on a very cool Sears Roebuck single shot that has been in my family for quite awhile. I’ve taken it completely apart for an ultrasonic cleaning. The firing pin is broken but those can be bought. Otherwise, I think this dog will hunt. Where I go from here is what I want to ask for help with.
Research tells me that this gun is worth $50 to $150. So basically, it has no value. I’m thinking about refinishing it, which would be a huge no-no if the gun were collectible. I’d like to shoot it a bit and hang it over the mantle. So first, I’d like to hear what others have done to cherry out the wood and refinish the metal.
second, I’d love to know what year it was made. I read about the date stamps but can’t decipher mine. Anybody here an expert at that? Seems like the bottom half of the date stamp isn’t there. I’m guessing my letter is an I, a J or a T. I’ve got pics but don’t quite understand how to load them here.

Any help would be appreciated!