H1: Conn 16A Slide Cornet – Vintage 1913 Collectible
The Conn 16A Slide Cornet, built in 1913, is a rare and beautifully preserved example of early American brass craftsmanship. At over 110 years old, it’s remarkable that this instrument remains in such outstanding condition. The finish is super clean, with no signs of prior damage or repair, and it still plays properly—an impressive feat for any instrument of this vintage.
This particular horn includes:
Two vintage mouthpieces
The original case, which houses a genuine Conn gold-plated mute
Original Conn design and engraving still sharp and clear
This is the second 16A that has come through The Brass Exchange in the past year, and it's always exciting to offer an instrument with this much character and historical significance. The slide cornet is a true novelty and makes an excellent collector's item, but it's also very playable for those who want to explore a unique tonal experience.
Many traditional jazz players—especially those who double on trombone or trumpet—appreciate the tactile feel and expressive sound of slide cornets. Though rare, they offer a fascinating blend of trumpet timbre with trombone-style slide control.
What is a Slide Cornet and who plays one today?
A slide cornet operates like a trombone but with the tighter timbre and smaller size of a trumpet. These instruments were more common in the early 1900s and are now favored by a select group of traditional jazz musicians, collectors, and brass historians. They're ideal for unique performance contexts and period-specific ensemble work.
This Conn 16A has been archived for reference and is no longer available for sale.
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