Expert: jack wiard - 10/6/2011

Question
QUESTION: I played Clarinet in the late 50s in band and still have it.  I'm trying to determine what its sale value might be.  It is a Pan American, made in Elkhart, Indiana, and is of Ebonite material.  Serial # is 31887.

ANSWER: Hello Marilyn...These student level clarinets show up on EBAY from time to time...The 'going rate' is about  $50-to 200 ,depending on condition..Yours would be at lower end of scale as it is around 60 years old...Cheers   JACK

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QUESTION: Thanks for the prompt response.  Around 60 years old --that would be an antique!!  It does need new pads and cork and it always had a beautiful sound.

Answer
Hello again...Keep in mind that a good overhaul [if needed on your clarinet], costs from $200-400, depending on who does thework...If you paid $350 for an overhaul on a 60 year old student level clarinet, it would probably be worth up to $200-250...It might be a better investment to sell the student one and invest in an intermediate or pro-level horn and put the repairs into that one...Cheers   JACK