Steve’s notes: Ringo Fans: This is a cool piece that I just purchased from a close friend of mine who is one of our most knowledgeable collectors. We have a 5x14 Ludwig Oyster Black rare Transition Badge 8 lug Jazz Fest snare drum. Date is circa 1960. As many of you know, the blue/gold transition badge was used when Ludwig bought his name back from C.G.Conn. This transition badge was used for a short time until the more traditional keystone badge emerged again. The drum has chrome-over-brass rims. The strainer is labled Ludwig and the butt plate WFL. This is typical of drums made during the transition where we see a mix of branded parts. Also, the interior is white paint, rather than the unpainted interiors of WFL. Ludwig started the white paint interiors right around this time, 1960.

Now, keep in mind that an oyster black Jazz Fest from the “serial number” days typically sells for $3500-$4000. This is essentially the same drum, but with the transition badge, and the bonus of COB rims. When you keep in mind the fact that even 6 lug Pioneers in this finish bring $1200+, this drum is a bargain for the Ringo fan who wants their kit as close as possible to Ringo’s.

And, for those of you who love the collector factor, the availability of transition badge drums in oyster black is extremely rare. I have seen VERY few examples of these snares, and only a couple of kits. This is logical since the finish wasn’t popular until Ringo debuted with the Beatles.