JC Deagan 834 1920’s Xylophone

Up for sale is a classic vintage J.C. Deagan "Lite-Wate" Model 834 Xylophone, manufactured in Chicago, Illinois. Deagan instruments from this era are world-renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, rich resonance, and historical importance in American percussion history and an almost cartoon sound that can only be achieved with a vintage xylophone. 

Features & Highlights:

Model: Deagan "Lite-Wate" Model 834

Range: 3 Octaves

Bars: Genuine high-grade Honduran Rosewood (Nagaed) bars with rich, dark grain and classic stamped note markings.. 

Frame & Stand: Original dark oak rails, patented black-finished cast end caps, and original folding "scissor-leg" metal stand for easy transport and set-up.

Resonators: Complete set of straight-cut tubular resonators.

Maker’s Badge: Original J.C. Deagan patent plate intact, listing patents ranging from the late 1880s through 1919.

Condition Details:

Bars: All rosewood bars are intact with no cracks or structural splits. The wood grain presents nicely with clear stamped note identification marks. The old-growth tree maturity gave "Nagaed" wood its tight grain density and acoustic ring, a structural quality impossible to replicate with modern plantation-grown rosewood. Bars had note stickers at some point but they have been removed and left no residue but show a little bit in the coloring of the wood

Hardware & Frame: The oak wood rails and folding metal stand show normal, character-rich wear consistent with an authentic 100-year-old instrument. Metal components are solid and functional.

Suspension: As is typical for instruments of this age, the felt rail pads and suspension cord show age wear and could benefit from fresh cord/felt to achieve optimal acoustic isolation and playability.

Shipping & Handling:

Will be carefully packed and padded for safe transit. Stand and frame components will be disassembled safely for secure shipping.

Local pickup is also available upon request. 14580

Please review all high-resolution photos closely for exact cosmetic condition. Feel free to reach out with any questions prior to bidding/buying!