Hi, my wife used this flute in high school and wants to sell it. I am trying to get accurate info before I list it on ebay. The case says Gemeinhardt and the neck of the flute says Gemeinhardt Elkhart, Ind. 3B 370882. All she knows is that it is an "open holed" flute. If you guys could help me identify it and a possible value, I would appreciate it.

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c289/tkbr0wn/flute_whole.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c289/tkbr0wn/flute_closeup.jpg

I may be wrong, but I believe on the barrel it also says "3B." That's your model number. It's a silver plated (throughout) flute, B footjoint, Inline G, Y arms, and (obviously) French key cups. Odds are it's not worth a lot. Its modern counterpart can be had for under $500 new, and without knowing exactly what kind of condition it's in, it's difficult to know what price you might expect for it.

Thank you so much for the quick response. Its something she will really never play again so she told me to ebay it when we were cleaning out our basement. Do you think it would be reasonable to ask say $150 for it. It is in good condition with no dings or dents. I dont see anything that couldn't be fixed with a good cleaning. I don't know how to check the pads or anything like that.... (I am a percussionist, never had to worry about stuff like that )

Thanks again.

Most of the value will be in the playability. The condition of the pads can make quite an impact on value and sale-ability, as they can be very costly to replace, and are a major dictator in how well the instrument plays. Assuming it plays well, $150 wouldn't be an inordinately high price to ask, but eBay doesn't always get you the best deal. Most of the instruments from Gemeinhardt that have any bids on them and are of roughly the same level seem to be selling for under $100. You can try $150, but if it doesn't sell the first few times, you might have to consider selling for less, or perhaps finding a different avenue to dispose of it.

You have been very helpful.... Thanks again.

No problem! I'm always glad to help! Good luck selling it!

It is item #170095836211 on ebay if anyone is interested.

$1.00 starting price and no reserve....

I must be CRAZY.....

That was a smart choice listing it without a reserve. I sell a lot on ebay and I do find that often times people get into bidding wars and you never know what you will get. Good luck with it.

I just looked at the auction. A good plus it that you have nice clear pictures. If you can, get a close up shot of the pads, that is what a lot of people will be asking about and will want to see. The fact that this flute has a B foot will raise the price more then the standard Gemeinhardts on there which is also a plus and you should be able to get the $150 you were orginally going to ask for it.