Expert: Kenton Scott - 3/4/2009

Question
QUESTION: I have run across a BBb Conn 3-valve (piston) Helicon tuba.
Its serial number is 171310.  I am interested in finding
out how old it is.  Can you refer me to a site where Conn
serial numbers exist?  Short of that, can you give me clues
as to its age?  Thanks!

ANSWER: It was made in 1920.  I have it's sibling - an Eb helicon from 1920.  You can find a table of serial numbers at:  http://www.horn-u-copia.net/Connlist.html

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

QUESTION: What steps would you take to establish the value of the
tuba, once it receives the repairs/maintenance (minor) that
it needs?

Answer
It depends on how you want to sell it.  Helicons have one big liablity.  They are hard to ship.  

One the other hand, the market for them is almost exclusively to experienced players.  So, that means that the father looking to find a horn for his kid, is not part of the market.  So, depending on where you live, the local market may or may not be a resource for you.

That leaves eBay as the next most likely option.  And, on eBay you don't have to worry about value, it will naturally rise to a fair price.  

As to repairs, given the market, you probably won't increase the value of the horn as much as the repairs will cost you.  

The facts that it is a Conn and a BBb will appreciate its value.