[MarlandS]

Here's what the Bluebook says about the Ithaca
MODEL 500
- 12, 20, 28 ga., or .410 bore, field grade, selective ejectors, VR, DT, 26 in. imp. cyl. and mod., 28 in. full and mod., and 30 in. full and mod. barrels, checkered stock. Prices below assume 50% engraving coverage and gold DTs. Mfg. in Japan by SKB 1966-79.
Grading 100% 98% 95% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10%
$525 $440 $395 $365 $330 $300 $275

Add 15% for 20 ga.
Add 25% for 28 ga. or .410 bore.
Add 10%-15% for fully engraved receiver with pheasant, or duck/quail and dog game scene if in 98%+ condition.
Subtract 10% if w/o gold triggers.
Subtract 15%-15% if w/ less than 50% engraving coverage.
The Model 500 varied quite a bit during the course of production in the amount of factory engraving (engraved animals or not), the quality of wood, style of checkering, and also had either silver or gold triggers. This model should also be checkered carefully for hairline cracks in the buttstock, where it joins the receiver. Also, beware of bluing wear on receiver bottom, and on the front and back of the triggerguard.

the Browning has this "book" value
Grading 100% 98% 95% 90% 80% 70% 60%
FN model $650 $550 $450 $400 $375 $350 $325
FN-vent. rib $850 $725 $645 $575 $465 $435 $395

 

[MarlandS]

When I say book value, I mean that's the value placed for it in the Bluebook of Gun Values. The Bluebook is compiled and published once a year , so, naturally through the course of the following year the values can fluctuate. We use the Bluebook for a consistant baseline , your actual mileage may vary.

For NIB condition on the A-5 add 10%
the engraving is standard on Light 12's of the era... gold trigger was available as an option but neither adds nor detracts from the value from what I've seen.

Here is one similar to yours, a little less on overall condition but it will give you a good overview.
http://www.auctionarms.com/search/displ ... um=4437243

 

[MarlandS]

Either would be a great choice for a keeper.