Expert: Kenton Scott - 11/14/2007

Question
How can I determine the approximate vintage of a KING "Master Model" Bb lacquered-brass cornet manufactured by H.N.White Co. of Cleveland, Ohio, having S/N 226841?

Same question for an "Arbuckle Model" silver Bb cornet made by Antoine Courtois et Mille of Paris, France, having no apparent serial number engraved on the instrument, but with bell engraving related to prizes this model won in Moscow and Paris in the 1870's; and with a bell-engraved indication that its "Sole U.S. Agent" (for distribution?) was J. Howard Foote of New York and Chicago?

Any ideas?

Thanks.

Answer
The King is about 1939.
The Courtois is a little more difficult. The award sets the earliest date possible.  The reference to famed cornet soloist Matthew Arbuckle isn't much help since he was born in 1828.  And on the other end, Foote's company ceased in 1896, so it is no newer than that.