1930 Conn Pan American Key of C Trumpet plus B/Bb Tuning Slide Extension and MTS Case!
Made in 1930 by American craftsmen in the USA (specifically, Elkhart, Indiana), this Pan American C trumpet with B/Bb tuning slide extension is in EXCELLENT CONDITION for a 90-year-old instrument!
This is a high-quality well-made C trumpet that has the unique ability to be converted into a B or Bb trumpet by adding the included main tuning slide extension and adjusting the position of the tuning slides to the lines that were factory scribed on the 1st and 3rd valve tuning slides and on the main tuning slide extension (see the photos).
For example, the key of Bb trumpet option requires the main tuning slide extension be inserted to the factory scribed line on it, and the 1st and 3rd valve tuning slides inserted to the second scribed lines on them. The 2nd valve tuning slide is so short that its adjustment would be very small or may simply be neglected. Note: Like most of the trumpets made in 1930, the bore size measures 0.42", which is considered to be a small bore by today's standards. However, it is a great player that has the perfect amount of slight backpressure while still being free blowing in my opinion.
It was very common for professional trumpeters at the time to have their initials engraved on their trumpets, which is the case here (see next to last trumpet photo).
This trumpet has a raw brass finish that many musicians love! This look is not for everyone... for example, a typical school band student wants a bright and shiny instrument, so they are likely to not appreciate the darker color of brass patina.
Please make sure that the intended recipient of this vintage trumpet likes the raw brass look. Raw brass develops an ultra-thin protective patina layer that gives it a darker look that usually appeals more to adult musicians and collectors.
Note: A raw brass finish will not shorten the life of an instrument as long as the instrument is kept clean and is stored in its case in a good environment (not in a damp basement or shed for example). The raw brass surfaces will develop a protective patina coating. This is true of both the inner and outer raw brass surfaces.
Remember that the inside surfaces of all brass instruments are raw brass, so all brass instruments should be kept clean (inside and out) and stored in their cases in good environments. Additionally, proper care and maintenance includes applying valve oil and slide grease on a regular basis. I recommend using valve oil every time it is played to insure continued longevity and optimal performance.
I personally tested, cleaned and lubricated this instrument. I hereby certify that it is fully functional and is all ready to play. Please note that the included MTS trumpet case is like new as shown in the last photo. Since trumpet mouthpieces are available in such a broad range of various sizes and shapes, a mouthpiece is not included with this listing. A mouthpiece of the preferred make and model is to be purchased separately.
Please let me know if you have any questions. Thanks!
P.S. I wrote the following detailed discussion about the C, B, and Bb configurations in response to a recent inquiry...
There are two factory-scribed lines on the first and third valve slides. The slides all the way in is C, out to the first line is B, and out to the second line is Bb. There are no lines scribed on the second valve slide, as it is very short. There is one factory-scribed line on the B/Bb main tuning slide extension. The extension is not used for C, added and inserted all the way in for B, and added to the only line for Bb. As with any trumpet, each of these tuning slides will require slight adjustments, but it provides a good starting point before making any fine-tuning adjustments.
As far as playing in tune, it is good for playing in all three keys (in my opinion, it's like having three trumpets in one). However, from what I understand of C/B/Bb trumpets in general, is that they are actually C trumpets, such that the starting and ending locations of the tapers are the same as a C trumpet, so it should perform best as a C trumpet. The B and Bb options also sound very good to me, but from what I understand of these trumpets in general, it should "technically" be a C trumpet. I could be wrong about this specific trumpet, but while playing it myself, I definitely preferred playing it as a C trumpet. In fact, it was my C trumpet of choice for the past few years, until I recently got a mint-condition C trumpet that I preferred, which was incidentally a lot more expensive than this one. ;-)
Seller Disclaimer:
Please note that returns are not accepted unless the item has been misrepresented in this listing, which includes multiple high-resolution photos and a video (when available).
Please note that only what is displayed in the photos is included, which is presented from multiple angles, so be sure to zoom in on all of the photos prior to purchase, as the photos are part of the item description.
We want you to know that great care is taken to ship the item as safely as possible. We do this by using premium packing materials (which may include a more protective case than that originally provided if so indicated in the description and in one of the photos) and by purchasing the shipping insurance and signature upon delivery confirmation (at our own expense if necessary). Tracking information is provided to allow the buyer to know when the item is out for delivery. Please let us know at the time of purchase if someone will not be available to sign for the delivery. Be sure to let us know if you have any additional questions or need further clarification prior to purchase. Thank you for your consideration.
This item is sold As-Described
This item is sold As-Described and cannot be returned unless it arrives in a condition different from how it was described or photographed. Items must be returned in original, as-shipped condition with all original packaging.Learn More.
| Listed | 4 years ago |
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| Condition | Excellent (Used) Excellent items are almost entirely free from blemishes and other visual defects and have been played or used with the utmost care.Learn more |
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