Expert: Kenton Scott - 5/19/2007

Question
QUESTION: I have a Martin baritone horn (bell up)with 4 rotor valves. It has valve spring windings like an Amati tuba from the 1970's. It is silver plated and has the sn#12665 and is stamped into a plate with the union "badge" on the first slide receiver. I don't have a complete serial number chart for Martin, do you?

ANSWER: I wonder if you have a GR Martin or a Max Martin instrument.  I have never seen a baritone from Martin Band Instrument Co. with anything other than piston valves.  I'm assuming you are describing what is nicknamed clock works.  Both GR Martin and Max Martin did use clock works.  What all is engraved on the instrument?

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QUESTION: The instrument is marked "The Martin Band Instrument Co. Elkart Indiana" My dad started our instrument repair business in 1948. We have never seen one like this. He new of the young lady that played this in his rural county high school band back in the early 40's. He was able to buy it about 12 years ago. What a find.

Answer
The earliest verified Martin is 17221 for 1919. And, appears that their production numbers were increasing from year to year.  My estimate would be that it would date roughly to around 1916.  All the numbers back that far, so I'm just making an estimate on an estimate.

I would like to see this horn, and add it to my WEB site www.horn-u-copia.net.  Would you be interested in sending pictures to me?  (Kenton@punxypa.com)