I found out what’s its worth back in 1990, I use to look for rare coins at the local pawn shops and one day I saw one in the shop and asked about it. The owner told me to bring mine in and he would appraise it. It appraised for $1800 26 years ago, I get it out once a year and give it a good cleaning and oiling, but that gun ain’t going anywhere.
The Double Gun Journal, several years ago ran an article where a guy bought up a truck load of damascus and twist barrel “wall hangers” (not top quality guns) and fired them (from a distance) using modern SAAMI proof loads (18,000 psi) and none blew up. Stocks cracked, forends popped off, and the actions opened, but no blowups.
Damascus barrels on high grade guns were available into the 20’s as an option, proofed for smokeless.
Still, as corrosion can weaken the barrels structure from the inside out, it’s best to avoid firing them.
Well done! A sound investment and a keepsake- give the old gal a thorough smith look over, then build some light pyrodex loads and kill a few Arkansas quail! Honor the gun by using it!
My 1908 Elgin Hammer gun ( fluid steel bbls) gets a light work out now and again up here in the MO Ozarks.
Thanks for your service!