Haynes or Powell Style Sterling Silver Professional C-Foot Concert Flute
Musical Instrument - Woodwind (Flute) · Likely William S. Haynes, Verne Q. Powell, or Sankyo; these premium makers are esteemed for hand-crafting professional sterling silver flutes often found in teal-lined cases.
Pattern: Professional Model with Drawn Tone Holes, C-foot joint, and Offset G key configuration.
Type
Musical Instrument - Woodwind (Flute)
Maker
Likely William S. Haynes, Verne Q. Powell, or Sankyo; these premium makers are esteemed for hand-crafting professional sterling silver flutes often found in teal-lined cases.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) tubing and mechanism, with gold or felt pads and steel needle springs. Key cups are solid sterling silver.
Dimensions
Total length approximately 26 inches (67 cm) when assembled; weight approximately 400-450 grams depending on wall thickness.
Description
A superb example of a professional-grade sterling silver flute. This three-piece instrument features a brilliant silver finish and an intricate key system designed for orchestral performance. Presented in its original velvet-lined hard case, it represents the intersection of fine jewelry-grade metallurgy and precision acoustic engineering.
Key Features
Closed-hole keys, offset G, C-foot, and high-purity sterling silver hallmark which provides a darker, richer resonance compared to nickel or silver-plated models.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) tubing and mechanism, with gold or felt pads and steel needle springs. Key cups are solid sterling silver.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish; the lip plate and tenons are unadorned, classic professional aesthetic typical of the Boston school of flute making.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A serial number '01124' is visible on the headjoint; hallmarks typically include 'Sterling' and the maker's logo on the body joint tenon and headjoint.
Construction Details
Hand-assembled with drawn tone holes, silver-soldered posts, and precision-fitted tenon joints for airtight connectivity.
Functional Features
Includes a headjoint, body joint, and footjoint; features a pointed cup key mechanism and standard Y-arms.
Handle & Grip Details
Silver lip plate and riser on the headjoint; keys have mother-of-pearl or concave silver touches for ergonomic finger placement.
Craftsmanship Details
The precision of the tenon fit and the hand-brazed posts indicate a high level of artisanal craftsmanship superior to mass-produced student models.
Authentication Indicators
The serial number stamp is crisp and deep; movement of the steel rods and the patina of the solder points are consistent with genuine solid silver construction rather than plating.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA (Boston, MA) or Japan; regions renowned for high-end precious metal wind instrument fabrication.
Era & Period
Modern Era (late 20th century to present); consistent with professional designs standardized after the 1950s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1990 based on the case style, serial number format, and key arm design.
Cultural Significance
The silver flute is a staple of Western classical music and jazz, symbolizing technical mastery and the luxury of professional artistry in the woodwind family.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition; pads appear aged (yellowing), consistent surface micro-scratches from use, and light tarnish in the crevices of the mechanism. No visible dents.
Value Estimate
$2,500 - $5,500 USD depending on the verified manufacturer, wall thickness (standard vs. heavy), and the integrity of the pads.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid using heavy silver polish; use a microfiber silver cloth. Store with anti-tarnish strips. Requires periodic 'COA' (Clean, Oil, and Adjust) by a professional technician.
Similar Pieces
Altus 1107 (Sterling Body), Muramatsu EX (Silver Head only), or Miyazawa Boston Classic. Professional models are distinguished by having silver keys as well as a silver body.
Interesting Facts
Sterling silver was popularized for flutes by Theobald Boehm in the mid-19th century because its density provides a unique tonal 'color' and projection sought by soloists.