-40%

1920s Leedy Vibraphone (original model) top 2 octaves, no stand/resonators

$ 31.15

Availability: 100 in stock

Description

This is an original generation Leedy Vibraphone. Between 1924 and 1929, Leedy produced about 25 of these instruments. These were the first to feature rotating fans in the resonators and the first instruments sold under the trademarked name "Vibraphone."
At one point this instrument was cut in half and only the top two octaves (G4-F6, 23 bars) remain.
The rest of the frame, the resonators, and the motor are missing. This model did not come with a pedal damping system.
The bars are steel rather than aluminum. They are only tuned at the fundamental. Bars are all 1/4" thick. The lowest bar is 1 5/8 x 9 3/4" and the highest bar is 1 1/2 x 5 3/4".
There is no bar cord. The bars rest on felt on the rails. They are held in place by posts and a metal strip that is mounted over them.
*****
An excellent history of the creation of this instrument is here: http://www.hopestreetmarimba.com/thank-you-herman-e-winterhoff/
*****
I use UPS Ground with no shipping markup.
I offer a 100% refund, including shipping cost, for any reason, as long as I receive the refund request within 30 days of delivery. The buyer pays return shipping.
Thanks for looking!
(lot 120)