Expert: Kenton Scott - 1/27/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hello,
I am trying to find some information on an old Pan American french horn that I have. It has piston valves and has a serial number of 51021 on the middle valve. I cannot find any other serial numbers or markings of any specific nature.

CAn you tell me app. how old this horn is or where I might be able to find some info on it? It's missing the middle valve but the other 2 work great...has a couple of minor dents but that's about it.
I'd love to find out more about this thing...
thanks much.
Dennis

ANSWER: Are you sure it is a French horn?  Might it be a mellophone?  It dates to about 1928.  

These are Pan American mellophones:  
http://www.horn-u-copia.net/show.php?selby=+where+instrument%3D%22Mellophone%22+

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

QUESTION: Wow...spot on Kevin!!
Thank you...
Can you tell me where I can find replacement valves online?
do you think local shops should be able to assist w/repairs?
Is there somewhere I can an idea of value?

thanks again,
Dennis

Answer
I think if you mean that it is missing the piston, then I think about the only way you will find a replacement is to find another Pan Am mellophone, and see if you can swap out the pistons.

The other way is to custom make some, but the cost of that would exceed the value of the horn.

You can watch completed auctions on eBay for similar instruments to get a general idea of value.