Expert: jack wiard - 9/23/2011

Question
Hello,
I have an old silver H Bettoney Columbia Model clairinet that has been in the family for many years.  It is one piece with the bell attached.  It has the adjustable tuning piece and then the mouthpiece.  It has a pat. # 1.705634 and on the other side U640.  It also has 40 on the back of some keys.  The cork and pads are in excellent condition.  The instrument has tarnished.  On the bell is engraved: H Bettoney Boston Mass Columbia Model with a nice engraved design above and below the writing. It also is in the original case and has the marching band music holder, reeds, and the silver cork grease container.  Can you tell me when this was made and what it might be worth today?  My parents are 85 years old and I would like to sell this for them but do not know what a fair price should bring them.  Thank you so much for any information you can provide me!

Answer
Hello Mary Beth,   The Columbia model is said to be the intermediate model that Bettoney made....Not many serial number lists but the bulk of these clarinets were made between 1920-1940....Silver clarinets these days,even if restored ,fetch around $200-400,and less [$50-150] if not restored...A complete overhaul would cost around $300,depending on the amount of work needed....Cheers   JACK