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1948 Martin Committee Trumpet To Refurbish - Hand Engraved, In Original Case

Estimated price for orientation: 560 $

Category: Trumpets
Class:











Description
Brand: Martin Model: Committee
Country/Region of Manufacture: United States Items Included: Mouthpiece
MPN: Does Not Apply Serial Number: 165712
UPC: Does not apply


This Martin Committee trumpet is fresh from a Midwest estate sale. I was told it was a one-owner horn, and according to the online databases, the serial number dates it to 1948. When I received it, there was a techniques book called "Trumpet Mechanisms" in the case, and it was dated 1945. So that all fits. I'll include the book (not shown) with the trumpet and case.This instrument does need to be refurbished in order to meet its potential.  It was badly tarnished, with most of its original lacquer gone. Before taking the photos I went over it lightly with a non-abrasive polish, it would definitely polish up a lot better but I did not want to buff it or do anything extreme. Unfortunately, it looks like somebody at some point used something abrasive to clean the top of the bell in order to see the engraving better; if you look at some of the photos, you can see places where there are fine vertical scratches there. They also appear on the section immediately above the valves. I am guessing the scratches could be buffed out and the engraving is still there, it just isn't as well-defined as I'd like to see it. It is a floral design, appearing above and below the Martin name and the words "Committee Model, Elkhart Ind., U.S.A."  Of course this is a cosmetic problem and shouldn't affect the quality of sound. But it's a significant flaw, and I want to make sure that potential bidders are aware of it.The large curve at the point nearest the mouthpiece has quite a few dents and is rather flattened, I've included a closeup so you can see exactly what I'm talking about. Not sure how this would affect the sound or playing of the instrument, but I do know these kinds of dents can be repaired. The horn is quite sturdy and there aren't any splits or repairs anywhere that I can see. There are also some small "dings" here and there, as can be expected in an instrument this age. The large slide moves freely; the small ones didn't budge with a gentle push so I didn't mess with them. All of the welds are good, and the valves behave as I would expect them to behave. The corks need to be replaced. I'm a woodwind player; I can barely make a sound on a brass instrument — and I assure you, it isn't pleasant to hear!  So I'm sorry, but I can't give an evaluation of this horn's playability, I'm afraid you will have to judge that from what you can see in the photos. However if you have specific questions, please send them and I'll answer to the best of my ability.The oilcloth-covered wooden case is sturdy; one hasp is missing from the lock on one side but the other is in working condition. These are easily replaced.  Most of the bindings on the edges are also missing, but the oilcloth itself is good (it needs to be cleaned!) as is the Martin badge and the handle. The interior, again, needs to be cleaned but is in pretty good shape and doesn't have any musty smells. The horn comes with a Vincent Bach (New York) 7C mouthpiece.I know this is a good instrument, but I honestly don't know what it is worth in its current condition. Therefore I'm selling it with a super-low starting bid and no reserve. Someone could get a real bargain here! Please examine the photos carefully, and feel free to write if you have questions. Buyer pays actual shipping costs. Good luck!