Differences between reproduction and original 14" horns.

[Jerry B.]

Many collectors can not tell the difference between a reproduction and original 14" black & brass horn. Here's what I look for:
#1 - There should be a raised brass bead where the black steel body meets the brass bell.
#2 - The small end of the horn should be crimped.
#3 - There may OR may not be Patent information stamped in the steel body of an original 14" horn.

Some of the better quality reproduction horns, like the Smith's, have a crimped small end but the majority have the round piece connected to the steel body. In 40+ years collecting I have seem many varieties of reproduction 14" horns but I have never seen a reproduction with a raised bead. If you remember to look for the raised brass bead, you can't go wrong. But please remember these guidelines do not apply to all brass 14" horns. Jerry Blais