Expert: Kenton Scott - 3/13/2009

Question
Hello!  I work at a music store in Wisconsin, and one of our schools sent us an old Wm. Frank Co. American Prep Mellophone (see attached image).  It is in good condition, and they are hoping to sell it.  I know you don't do evaluations, but I am hoping you can perhaps give me a little history on this horn and point me in the direction of someone who would know what this instrument could be worth.  Thank you!

Answer
The information on Frank serials is  - to be kind - a bit sketchy.

http://www.horn-u-copia.net/Franklist.html

William Frank (b. 1876 Allentown, PA -  1932 Chicago) worked for Holton.  Frank also played French horn in the Chicago Symphony from 1904 til his death in 1932.

Early but no definite date, he founded the National Band Instrument Company. It only lasted for a few short years before changing name to William Frank and Company.

It is unclear whether he started National or Frank in 1910.  At one time, he had a work force of 32.  He used American Prep and Belmore as tradenames.

Some Lyon & Healy horns are made by Bohland & Fuchs and others are made by Frank. The Frank horns have WIDE stamped on the valves,

Bach, Couturier, Jay, Frank and Holton appear to have some shared parts such as pull knobs, braces, waterkeys, bottom valve caps and 3rd slide rings.

As far as selling the horn, placing it on eBay will naturally bring a fair price if it is well photographed and accurately described.  You can also watch completed auctions on eBay to get a sense of value.