Mellophone, F, E-flat, D, C, high pitch / low pitch
Maker
C. G. Conn
Date1908 ca.
Place MadeElkhart, Indiana, United States, North America
ModelPerfected Wonder
Serial No.100321
SignedEngraved on bell: MADE BY / C. G. CONN / ELKHART / IND. (surrounded by a dotted circular band and a symmetrical scrolling figure)MarkingsStamped on valves: 1, 2, 3
Stamped on the rotary valve: E flat, D, C, F
On bottom of rotary valve: PAT. APLD FOR No. 13
DescriptionCircular mellophone made in silver-plated brass with satin finish. Burnished engraving and bell interior. Three, top-sprung, Périnet valves with mother-of-pearl touchpieces. Rotary change-valve to alter pitch. One water-key on leadpipe.
The Perfected Wonder mellophone model only appears in Conn advertising from 1908 (June) to 1910. The No. 13 patent can be found for the rotary device, although #1,061,885 (applied for 12/9/1909; awarded 5/13/1913) addresses a different means to accomplish the same key by means of a sliding perforated valve, so the company was investigating various options. Presumably, this avenue ceased after the May 22, 1910, fire. The rotary valve allows one to change pitches (F, E flat, D, C) without the insertion of crooks or slides, which are built in.
DimensionsBell diameter: 230 mm / 9 in
ProvenanceGift of Mark and Alice Westlund, Canby, Oregon, 1997.
Credit LineGift of Mark and Alice Westlund, 1997
Object number06030
On View
On view
