Expert: Kenton Scott - 12/11/2006

Question
The trumpet belonged to my late husband.  He played it in high school, 1949-1953.  He did not think it was purchased new.  The only words on it are: Zenth, Distributor Whitman Music Co., Dallas, Texas.  There are no numbers anywhere that I can find.  There is a lot of engraving/etching on the horn, and needs silved polish to keep it shining.  The case only has a medal oval that says "Whitman Music Company, Dallas, Texas".  Just wondering if I have anything special - that is, other than something that belong to my husband when he was a teenager.

Thanks.

Answer
The horn is almost certainly one that was made by an unnamed maker and then stenciled by Whitman.  I find no listing for Whitman.  

However, the fact that it is heavily engraved would be indication that the maker though it was a worthy instrument. It is possible that it was made by a well regarded maker.  

Unless it is very old, the fact that is doesn't list a country of origin would seem to suggest that is was made domestically.  

I don't know that I can shed any more light on it, but if you wish to send pictures to Kenton@punxypa.com, I'd certainly be willing to take a look at it.