Identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
A historic American metal clarinet featuring an engraved bell with 'The Regent' crown logo. Made of nickel-silver or silver-plated brass, metal clarinets like this were engineered for durability during the Golden Age of school marching bands and jazz ensembles.
Story
The Ohio Band Instrument Company was a subsidiary of the renowned H. N. White Company (makers of King instruments) based in Cleveland, Ohio. They produced student-line and intermediate instruments, including 'The Regent,' during the 1920s and 1930s—an era when metal clarinets were highly favored for their durability in outdoor and school settings. The secondary market for vintage metal clarinets is generally soft but stable.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
Value for vintage woodwinds is heavily dependent on mechanical condition. While tarnish on the nickel-silver or silver-plated body is expected and easily polished, the integrity of the pads, joint corks, and key springs dictates whether the instrument is playable.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
The secondary market for vintage metal clarinets is generally soft but stable. Originally mass-produced for school marching bands, they are now primarily sought by niche vintage instrument collectors, jazz enthusiasts, or buyers looking for unique decor. Fully overhauled, playable instruments move at a modest premium, while 'as-found' examples often sell cheaply due to the high cost of restoration.
▲ Identified maker with ties to the respected H. N. White Company (King) adds historical interest.
▲ Intact 'The Regent' crown engraving on the bell appeals to vintage brand collectors.
▲ Durable metal construction makes it a viable novelty or outdoor instrument for modern players.
▼ Unverified pad and cork condition — if a full repad is required, value drops to the $50 floor.
▼ Unverified presence of the original hard case and mouthpiece, which are expected by buyers in the $100+ range.
Best Venue
List on broad secondhand marketplaces like eBay or Reverb, where vintage instrument buyers actively browse. Do not invest in a professional repad or overhaul before selling, as the repair cost (often $200+) will likely exceed the added resale value. Price near the $100 mark if the keys move freely, and accept offers.
Upside Potential
If the instrument has been recently overhauled with fresh pads and corks, and plays perfectly in tune, it could push toward the $200-$250 retail asking range observed in the market.
Also found — market-range context
Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.