AboutEugene Cantera Expertise I have been a music educator for over 25 years and have taught on many levels from young children and school agers on through to college level, professional players and senior citizens. My main areas of expertise are saxophone(s) though I have taught many instruments including, guitar, bass, piano, oboe and drums to name a few. I have also done research on horns both vintage and new.
Experience I have been in music education for 25 years and I have written and published in the subject of professional music education.
Publications The Dallas Morning News, Dallas Business Journal, Marketing and Higher Education Newsletter.
Education/Credentials Bachelor of Music Education, Hartt School of Music - The University of Hartford.
Expert: Eugene Cantera Date: 6/30/2008 Subject: Request for info on an old sax
Question I have an alto saxophone and I was told when I purchased it that it was from 1915. I don't know what brand it is but it has "Artists Supertone Model Made in U.S.A." engraved on the bell. Under the spot where you put the thumb of your lower hand it has "PAT APPLD FOR" and beneath this a single capital A. Beneath this is the serial number: 202308 Under the serial number is a single capital L I was wondering if you know any information regarding its brand, origin, or collector value. Any and all information I can get would be greatly appreciated.
Answer I wouldn't put too much stock into the 1915 date - that is a common patent pending stamp date. Your horn may well be from the 1920's though and is probably a 'stencil' horn - made by a manufacturer (maybe Buescher, Conn or Martin) and stenciled for sale through a speciality retailer. These records are scarce however, so it's just an estimated guess on my part.
The collector value will be in the condition. If it is in extremely great shape (original parts and lacquer with lots of visible etchings), you may well get a few hundred to maybe $600 for it on an auction site like e-bay. Otherwise you have a nice showpiece and antique musical instrument to display!
