Advanced Search
Mellophone, F, E-flat, D, C, high pitch / low pitch
Maker: C. G. Conn
Date: 1908 ca.
Place Made:Elkhart, Indiana, United States, North America
Model: Perfected 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
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.
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.
Terms
Credit Line: Gift of Mark and Alice Westlund, 1997
On view
Object number: 06030