[firefree]

I have no issue with value. Just read an article here where a fellow used a niclel plated gun to practice witness marks because its value could not be deminished any more than being nickel plated. And its family history, can't sell family history. Also I don't feel bad shooting it since its not taking away from value. Actually I thought about a re-nickel as where the plating is good it a sweet looking piece.
BUT, if it was made before or during WWI then there may be a safety issue in shooting it. I own a 100 year old Colt .38 in very good shape. I shoot it every now and then too. I don't really enjoy guns I can't shoot.
My issue is how old the gun is. And if the "picked-up" story is plausable. My wife was very close to her Dad and wants to believe he told her the truth. If its a WWI gun then it could have been captured and obtained by her Dad in France. That would make her day.