Doesn`t that throw with those lugs make this a Hollywood Ace Model ?

Then it's a dark colored maple, most likely. I'm not saying it cant possibly be solid mahogany but having NEVER seen one in 30 plus years, I'd be really surprised.

If it's a three ply, it should be pretty obvious. They are thin, though. The thickest part will be the center ply of poplar. If you take a little sandpaper to the edge, followed by a wet cloth, the plies or lack of them should be apparent.

Better clear photos would REALLY help.

If the badge grommet is one of those screw and nut deals remove it and see if it's solid shell or 3 plys if your not 100% certain. Take a close look with a mag glass or lupe. You can also scrape a small spot under a lug screw and see if it's a solid maple shell that was stained. Maple will show lighter depending how deep the stain sunk in. That's if you feel it was stained.

Mark if this is really a solid mahogany shell did they make them this deep early on? If so maybe a past owner had later re rings put in and edges redone?? Would that be possible? If not I'd say 3 ply concert king?

I'd have to agree with Cooper here, never seen a solid mahogany either.

I hate to bust your bubble, but I suspect this drum to be a drum used to make you think it's a RK. Whereas, the hardware was taken from a RK, but the shell was shot. Shells are easy to come by.

Just my opinion, but I've only been collecting 25 years.

If that's the case, that's fine. The thing sounds like a million bucks in my opinion, so that's really all that matters to me. I've never been one to try and get something super valuable and pristine. As long as it sounds good to my ear I'm happier than a pig in mud!

Well, if it was an older shell (1920's-30's), it would have had long tube lugs. I suppose someone could drill extra holes to fit the lugs. I really doubt that is the case, though. Pretty sure this is a three ply.

Thanks Mark. I didn't think of the tube lugs. That's why your the expert!! :)

I found this exact drum labeled Holliwood Ace Swing Model Radio King snare. Solid Maple shell. Available in Blue Sparkle. in the 49, 51, and 55 catalogs.

That`s what I think this is.

Sorry so long to reply.

It was, without a doubt, 1-ply mahogany. (I had 17 RK SD's at the time so there were plenty of specimens to compare.)

7x14, BDP, tin w/ red letter badge, 8 lug. Mine had the stick-eater hoops, prob'ly a retrofit.

Listed in the '41 catalog.

Ha! There ARE no experts when it comes to vintage drums. :-) It's a constant learning experience, with LOTS of gray areas and mysteries.

Thanks for saying that, though!