My drum teacher came across this old Ludwig snare and asked me to try and find some info about it. The hardware is nickle and not chrome. We're mainly trying to find out a year range and possibly value. If you need more pics let me know. Any help is greatly appreciated.
[img]http://i.imgur.com/bDqLoFxh.jpg[/img]
[img]http://i.imgur.com/UnZ6hMyh.jpg[/img]
Looks like a late 60`s 5x13 Porto Pak
What are the dimensions ? Can you show the throw-off, butt end and inside ?
The badge is what is known as the "transition" badge and was the first badge used when the drum brand was transitioned from WFL to Ludwig. That would date the drum as being made sometime from late 1958 to early 1960. There may be a date stamp inside the drum if you look closely.
The six lug configuration would indicate a "Pioneer" model snare (unless it is 13" in diameter, then see above). Nickel hardware was very common at the time as upgrading to chrome cost a bit more. The Pioneer was one of the cheaper models aimed at beginners although the pearl finish was an upgrade on that model.
Depending on condition the value for a Pioneer would be around $200-$300 for an especially nice one and less for one in rougher condition. Condition makes a big difference on value.
Awesome! Thanks for all the help.
I see a nice vintage Ludwig Playon Plastic head on there. Keep that, even if you change the heads to something modern for playing. The head itself has collectible value. Same for one on the bottom if it is also from that era. And the snare wires as well, if they are original.
I'm not sure if the Playon was introduced during the reign of the Transition Badge. Mike Layton might know. Calling Mike.
I see a nice vintage Ludwig Playon Plastic head on there. Keep that, even if you change the heads to something modern for playing. The head itself has collectible value. Same for one on the bottom if it is also from that era. And the snare wires as well, if they are original. I'm not sure if the Playon was introduced during the reign of the Transition Badge. Mike Layton might know. Calling Mike.
+ 1!! totally agree!!
You guys are right. That Playon plastic head is most likely the original head for that drum. They were introduced around that time. They are not shown in the '57 catalog but are shown in the 59/60 catalog.
Mike
Thanks Mike, I figured you would know. I remember you had nice pic of one you had on a drum.
I have the old catalogs somewhere but I am a bit busy on other things ;) so I didn't want to spend time on a big search.
