C. G. Conn Ltd
Elkhart, Indiana
Large Bore Bb/A Trumpet
#131503 c.1913

Model: unknown, possibly Booster
Key: Bb/A
Length: 19.25 "
Bell: 4.625"
Bore: #2-1/2 = 0.485"
Finish: silver-plated
Cost in 1913: unknown

There was a short period of time from 1912 to 1913 when Conn was experimenting with a large-bore trumpet design. They made this with both a cornet and trumpet receiver. These never show up in catalogs and only one ad in the March 1914 "Musical Truth" describes this as "The Booster Trumpet model Cornet". They first show up in 1912 at serial numer 124000 with cornets going up to 127000 and trumpets continuing into 1913 at 132733.

Here is the cornet ad from 1914.

In 2023, I picked up cornet #124135, the earliest example of the Booster model that I have recorded.

In 2024, I picked up this trumpet version marked "L" which appeared to have the same design. Some differences are the bell braces, bottom water key, and the third slide top branch set back more to include a finger ring; a rare option on early trumpets.

Here are some photos before any restoration was done.

Very little had to be done to this besides some minor dents and polishing.

Did you notice that valve one was a little taller than the others? This also had a different insert in the bottom of the valve, yet the serial number on the tower was correct. Looking at the bottom of the spring tower, it does look like it was soldered on later so this could be an early repair.

I have added a 1920s Conn mouthpiece for display until I can find the correct style.

The forward bell brace seems to be installed backwards, yet there is no evidence this was ever moved.

Now with the case cleaned up.

Before getting the trumpet, I would have said that the trumpet was identical in design to the cornet, yet when placed side-by-side, it's quite different. The trumpet is an inch longer.

This photo is with the valves in the same position and the cornet on top.

This photo is with the bells in the same position.