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Brand: Frank Holton & Co.Model: Short Model Cornet (Pre-1918 Chicago Era)Serial Number: 34912Year of Manufacture: 1916Instrument: CornetFinish: Silver-PlatedBore Size: 00-1/4 (Medium-Large Conical Bore)Price Type: Fixed Price / Buy It Now (Allow Offers Enabled)Set Includes: 1916 Cornet Instrument, Original Case, Original Stamped Mouthpiece, Wooden Mute, Marching Lyre
complete time-capsule piece of American musical history: an authentic 1916 Frank Holton & Co. short-model cornet instrument package. While often confused with a traditional trumpet due to its shape, this classic horn features a tighter, more compact loop configuration and the distinct conical tubing that delivers a beautifully rich, warm, and authentic vintage jazz/brass tone.This entire lot has survived together for over a century, tracing back to the historic Chicago, Illinois factory just two years before production permanently relocated to Wisconsin in 1918.The middle valve casing of the instrument is clearly stamped with serial number 34912 (dating to exactly 1916) along with the highly regarded 00-1/4 bore designation, prized by brass collectors for its exceptional craftsmanship. This listing includes the horn itself and every single original period accessory it was originally paired with.
Cosmetic: The entire kit is in honest, unpolished antique condition exactly as found. The horn retains a beautiful, deep vintage patina with typical age-related tarnishing across the silver plating. There is normal brass show-through on high-contact areas, particularly around the valve casings and on the rim of the original mouthpiece where lips made contact. No major structural crushing or structural repairs observed.
Mechanical Note: Sold strictly As-Is / Found Estate Condition. Because this is a 110-year-old un-restored instrument, it will require a professional cleaning, fresh felts, and lubrication before it is ready for optimal daily play.
Case Condition: Structurally stable and solid. The original latching mechanisms, handle, and exterior skin show honest cosmetic wear and weathering consistent with its century-long age.
