Expert: Kenton Scott - 5/16/2006

Question
-------------------------
Followup To
Question - Scott, I really appreciate the prompt reply and info. Now, anyway for me to narrow the date and is this worth anything? Should it be insured? Should I go to the next "Antique Road Show" location?
I have inherited an "American" trombone. Name on the bell "CLIMAIC" or "CLIMAC" (Engraved script). Then there is a "Made in USA" on the bell.  The body of the unit is silver with the inside of the bell being a brass color. It has what appears to be the original case. Any comments on age or value or history? Verbal history says 1920's. Not sure of the reliability of that statement.
Answer -
I suspect what it says is American Climax, which was a tradename for Lyon and Healy out of Chicago.  However, the tradename was also used by JW Pepper, Philadelphia as well. Pepper was in the instrument business from 1876-1919.  Lyon and Healy were in business from 1864-1940.

So, dating to the 1920's is certainly plausible.

kms

Answer
Hi Jon,

No, I'm afraid that it is not going to be worth much.  Old trombones typically don't command much value, and in spite of the fact that Lyon and Healy probably sold more instruments in their business span any any one else, they are pretty much forgotten.  That is coupled with the fact that a fire wiped out all their records so researchers and historican don't have much to go on.  

There is a group, of which I am a part, that is trying to develop a body of knowledge on L&H, but it is just in its infancy.

The only way to further the date it is by clues provided by the way it is designed and manufactured.  

kms