Expert: Kenton Scott - 3/13/2008

Question
I have an early 20th century coronet. This instrument is fully silver plated except for the inside of the bell. It has no markings except for sequential numbering on each valve. On this particular instrument the numbers are 73, 74, 75. It is almost identical to a circa 1900 H. Lenhert in appearance, the only difference being in the shape of the the bell tubing leaving the valve assembly. The H. Lenhert dips even with the bottom of the valves and this instrument dips slightly less coming down even with the mid point on the lead in tubing which is about 1/2 inch higher. This is a tri-pitch coronet with 2 tuning crooks and 2 lead-pipes. I do not know if the mouthpiece is original or not, however it is also without markings. The case appears to be original for the period and in good shape. It is the standard cloth covered wooden case with a green felt lining. I am not looking to sell it. I mearly wish to identify it. Thank you one and all for any assistance. Thom
Following careful examination under a magnifying glass, I found the word "Austria" stamped into the base of the second valve. I took it for scratches originally until I turned the horn upside down and it became legible when viewed from that angle. I assume this would be the country of origin sometime after 1891. Thanks again for your assistance. Thom

Answer
Thom,

I can't give you a maker, but we can talk about some of the details.  At least sometimes when the inside of the bell is not silvered, is because they used a light gold plating on the inside of the bell.  The numbers on the valves are simply maker's marks to make sure the right piston is put in the proper casing.  It is probably only similar in style to the Lehnert. I believe that Lehnert made all his own products. I would agree that it is probably after 1891. It is at least plausible that it was intended to be stenciled after being imported, but somehow never made it to the engraver.