Offered for sale is a beautiful Ludwig Pioneer 5x14 snare drum (Model No. 491) finished in the classic Blue/Silver Duco lacquer, with serial number 198057 on the badge and date-stamped Sep 15 1965. The clarity of the date stamp is one of the best I’ve seen.

This is an honest, all-original example that has been well cared for over the past 60+ years. The drum remains in very good vintage condition and is complete with several desirable period accessories, making it an excellent addition to a collection or a ready-to-play vintage setup.

Features:

• Original nickel hardware (rims, lugs, throw, butt plate)
• Original white-felt ”baseball bat” style tone control
• Original P-83 throw-off
• Original Ludwig heads (batter and reso)
• Original tension rods
• Original snare wires with replacement snare cord (only non-original item)
• Includes original Ludwig hard-shell concert carrying case (Model No. 7152)
• Includes original vintage WFL snare stand with excellent rubber
• Includes vintage Ludwig drumsticks, 3A (excellent, barely used), 6A (fair, used)

Condition

The shell presents beautifully with strong color and very clean overall appearance. The finish shows only normal age-related handling marks and very light lacquer “spider webbing“ which is expected on a drum of this vintage.

There is a small ding in the shell finish (shown in the photos) measuring approximately 1/16” of an inch, about the size of the tip of a ball point pen, and a very small area by the base of the muffler with some flaked-off lacquer. Both areas viewable in photos. These are not visible in a playing or stage setting. The shell is in great condition, really smooth bearing edges, no cracks, no extra holes, no structural issues, great interior condition and the rerings are true.

The nickel hardware retains a very attractive shine with typical light patina consistent with age. The P-83 throw functions smoothly, and the drum tunes easily across a wide range with the original heads still in place.

Overall, this is a very clean, honest survivor that has not been modified or pieced together. All original from ‘65!

Why You’ll Love It

Finding a great sounding, great condition mid-1960s Pioneer is rewarding on its own. Finding one that still includes its original Ludwig concert case, vintage WFL stand, and period Ludwig sticks makes this a particularly appealing package for collectors and players alike.

Please review all photos carefully, as they are part of the description. I’m happy to answer questions or provide additional photos upon request.

Buyer pays standard, flate-rate shipping fee of $50. I know shipping rates suck; we all are frustrated with them. Shipping to continental U.S. only. No international shipping.