[bruce bailey]

I have seen the serial number on the back of the G# and also some side keys. Also being that it is a very early model, make SURE it is not a High Pitch model (HP). Many of the time were and some were not marked. If it is HP, it is nearly worthless as it cannot be played with other instruments but I guess you would have figured that out playing it. Those early horns are OK but the later ones are much better. Look for a New Wonder from the 1920s. A straight one can be found in the $800-1,500 range and curved slightly higher.

 

[bruce bailey]

Those serial numbers on the early ones did not have the patent date (1914) and the numbers were down low on the main tube near the ring for the bow attachment. Often they get cleaned off when a resolder of the low Eb cage is done. Still watch that pitch. I had a 1913 curvie and it was not nearly as good as the later New Wonder horns.

 

[bruce bailey]

Forgto to mention that I was talking about the serial number on the curvies. Gayle is a female.