A flute teacher is asking me to help him sell his Muramatsu flute. I have no idea what would be a fair price for it.

He bought it himself new in the 70's It has a three digit serial number. It is open hole, inline G, C foot, drawn tone holes. No model number, no indication that it is silver. Owner says it is totally silver, including mecanism. It has recently been repadded by a professionnal, and it is in pristine condition.

I will post photos later. If anybody knows something about those older flutes, or can refer me to a link, it would be greatly appreciated.

thanks!

If it is silver, the tarnish will have a black color to it. If it is plated, it will have a brownish color to it.

You can get the serial number and call Muramatsu America and ask them the details of the flute.

Muramatsu America told me it is most likely an older student Muramatsu imported from Japan. They suggest I contat the asian division of the company for more information regarding value.

I didn't know Muramatsu had 'student' level flutes. Perhaps it is student by opposition to fully handmade professionnal flute, like the one Micron is describing

No model number to be found anywhere. Neither on barrel, ribs, near tenons...

Hmmm... Muramatsu Japan is not very helpful either; they wrote that this flute is too old to have it in there records. Can't tell me anything about it!!!

I don't work for any flute company but with most student flutes I can tell easily by its serial number, model number, condition, when they were approximatly produced and what they are worth on the used market (the price I pay & the price they can be sold once overhauled).

But nobody working for Muramatsu can help me!

A 3 digit serial number means it is probably among the first to be made. This flute doesn't need any overhauling; it is unusually pristine for its age. You can view some photos here:

http://kangimusic.com/produits/1avendre/fl_mura02.html

How much would you guys, as flute resellers, would pay for this? I am asking because this is what is being asked to me. He needs the money to buy an other flute, an upgrade from that one. I cold also sell it on consignment, but that could take too long. And still, I don't have a clue how much we could ask for it. I could also sell it on eBay, but then what would be a reasonnable reserve amount or starting bid?