I have a 1938 Degan marimba that is in reasonably good condition. I'm not sure if there were several different models manufactured at the time, but a portion of the instrument seems to have been made out of a cardboard like material.

In any case, does anyone know a range of values would be for such an instrument. Thanks.

Robert,

If no one answers your question on this board (or even if someone does, actually), I'd suggest contacting Gilberto Serna at Century Mallet Instrument Service in Chicago. He's arguably the country's top expert in "all things Deagan," as he worked for the company when it existed, and he operates Century Mallet out of the old Deagan building.

Gilberto Serna
Century Mallet Instrument Service
1770 W. Berteau Ave.
Chicago, IL 60613
773-248-7733

...if anyone can provide more information about your particular instrument, it is he, I'm willing to bet.

JW

Robert,
During WWII Deagan made several marimbas using cardboard for the resonators to save metal for the "war effort"...if you know the model #(usually stamped on the lowest bar) or at least the range,bar size,and condition.. I could give you a pretty fair (although subjective) estimate on the value..The most common one I come across is the Model#36--4 octave..but made, I believe, a little later..mid-40's

Bill