My 16 g was my Dad's first shotgun that he bought.I have one of these that was my grandfather's. Unfortunately, part of the action was poorly re-blued (probably some sort of cold-blue concoction) that a gunsmith helped fix. It runs really well, but only has sentimental value at this point.
Which is more than enough value for me.
I do like it, though.
They are used quite extensively in Cowboy Action Shooting. There are a few good gunsmiths that can make these guns sing for that style of competition. Prior to the cowboy action market, these guns were worth about $150. Now, a 97 is worth about $350, more if it is a solid frame (non-takedown model).
Don't touch the gun in any way without having it looked at by a good cowboy action gunsmith.