Iver Johnson Champion

Champion model introduced late 19th century and manufactured 1909-1956, becoming one of most iconic guns from Iver Johnson line spanning nearly half a century. Notable feature was top-break design, allowing shooters to quickly reload by simply breaking barrel open, ejecting spent shell, and loading new one in single fluid motion. Made it faster to reload than many other single-shot designs of era. Champion represented affordable entry point into shotgun ownership for countless Americans during time when firearms were essential tools for rural life. Simple, reliable mechanism made it nearly indestructible and easy to maintain even in harsh conditions. Produced for nearly 50 years with minimal design changes. Top-break action considered innovative and user-friendly. Many used as working farm guns and still function today. Current values range $100-275 depending on condition. Serial number dating: All numbers = 1909-1919, 1 letter suffix = 1920-1929, 2 letters = 1930-1939, all letters = 1940-1956.