Expert: Kenton Scott - 1/17/2006

Question
We are wondering about the value/history of a recently acquired sterling silver clarinet which our daughter plays. It sounds beautiful, has the sterling mark, is likely from between 1925 and 1935, an H. N. White Silver King. I understand from searching about that the White company was purchased in the 1970's and the records destroyed. The case indicates that it was played in the US Quartermasters Corps.   Thank you--


Answer
My area is brass instruments not woodwinds, so I can't speak with any authority on clarinets.  But, I'll tell you what I do  know.  

The silver clarinets were an experiment to cut costs during the depression.  And, while I understand that it is entirely possible to make a metal clarinet play as well as a wooden one, for the most part, they were a poor alternative.  And, even if it played wonderfully, they are generally not held in high esteem, so probably would not be of much value.

If you can find the serial number on it, I would think we should be able to date the manufacture of it.

On the other hand, King was noted for the quality of their horns.  So, I would think that if it plays well, your daughter needs to hang on to it and enjoy it.  

kms