1930s Ludwig snare

by Larry
(Red Bluff, Ca )

I picked up a drumset for one of my students from Craigs List. A cheap China set. The person I bought the set from threw in a snare drum. Before I got out of the driveway I knew it was an old Ludwig Snare. The closest snare I can find on my PC is a 1936 Brass snare with the same white oval logo from (Ludwig and Ludwig Made in USA Chicago Illinois). It has issues a like chip of chrome came off, I can see the brass under the chrome. Can I restore it? Shine it up as well as I can?What would you do? Worth?? Thanks for your time, Larry

ANSWER

Hi, Larry--
This drum appears to be the "Silver Anniversary Edition of 1936. It is nickel over brass. There is another one that is located at the Vintage Drum Center.

1936 Silver Anniversary Ludwig Snare Drum

Whatever you do, please don't "restore" it in any fashion--even polishing--before you get an appraisal. Any alterations will diminish the value.

You can get a professional appraisal from the Vintage Drum Center for about $20. I imagine that if it is in their museum, the value is considerable.

Here is the link to the appraisal service:

Vintage Drum Center Appraisals

We would LOVE to know what you find out!

Lynne