Expert: Kenton Scott - 3/25/2008

Question
QUESTION: Your previous answer to question 12/18/2007 indicated the origins of the makers. Many thanks. This trombone is in a poor state of repare and requires restoration if it is of any value. The bell is dented, the valves are out but intact, no mouthpiece and a tiebar between the "U" section of the bell is missing. Is this a rare instrument and worth reparing. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

ANSWER: It is probably one of those horns, that may be of interest to someone who takes beat up instruments, and fixes them up and the resells them.  But, probably if you were to take it to someone to fix and then sell, you wouldn't get your money back out of it.



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Did MJHK make many of these Valve trombones ? It sounds as if it is not a rare horn although 100 years old. Can you recommend anyone for a valuation before we scrap it? Moving house soon.

Answer
I don't have any information the output of their factory.  Rarity isn't the only consideration for value. Reputation is another factor and a lessor known brand doesn't command the reputation of some of the popular/highly regarded makers.  Your best bet would be to take good pictures of it and place it on eBay, where it will naturally raise to a fair price.