Hi VDF Folks,
Recently a couple more Camco drums surfaced with written numbers on the interiors.
Without first-hand information from former Camco staff members, we will probably never know for sure what those numbers represent.
Fact is that they only appear on Los Angeles period drums (1973 - 1977) and that some drums have them and others don’t.
We know that quite a few Camco sets have the same number written in all shells. We also know that they’re only 2, 3 or 4-digit numbers and they always appear on the reinforcement ring.
I was informed that Craig Krampf mentions these numbers in the Rogers book (page 90). "Inside every drum of the set there was
a number181; that meant this was the 181st set made. I still have that set."
We always thought those numbers were all over the board but going deeper into it and looking at those number chronologically, there seem to be some consistency and pattern indeed.
On various posts here and browsing the web, I was able to collect around 20 examples of LA Camco drums with numbers.
The lower 2 and 3 digit numbers, all have the large script black stamps. ( #24, 151 and 171)
Then we have the small script black stamps with numbers around the 200-500. ( 194,258,438 and 446)
The funny one is the paper tag with number 600.
After this the big red marker writing seem to appear. (756, 757, 780, 795)
The 4-digit numbers we know of are all written with a small-tip black or red marker and all have the same distinctive curly hand-writing. (1043,1113,1227,1264,1274)
Attached a couple of examples.
I believe it’s fair to assume that the earlier the manufacturing date, the lower the number. (note the early flat lug-screws)
Towards the 700’s and the 4-digit numbers, we see the later alu lug-screws.
It would be great if every Camco Los Angeles badge drum owner out there could have a close look at their drums and let me know if they have numbers written inside.
Please post a picture with it and include information like: drum-sizes, finish, configuration, etc...
Who knows, together we might unravel the great mystery of the Camco LA-badge numbering.
Thanks !!!
