That was the era of the riveted wraps (seam reinforced by a row of small rivets to combat shrinkage) which wasn't a shining moment in Ludwig history, but really they were making great drums at the time. 6 ply maple/poplar shells are great Rock drums. The modular hardware was ultra heavy duty although maybe a bit of overkill.

Not sure on the COB snare drum. The only brass drum they made at that time was the Black Beauty. The bronze shelled drums were introduced in the early 80s but neither was available with chrome plating. The chrome snare drums were aluminum, as before and still are in their standard configuration.

Up to 1985 Ludwigs were still made in Chicago as they had been since the late 30s (WFL) so the quality remained pretty consistent. If you're looking at top of the line drums (not Rockers or some other offshoot, although some of them are quite nice as well) you should be okay.

These appear to have the black/white badge, not the black/silver of Rockers. But to be honest, a riveted wrap doesn't appeal very much!

The black/white badges were used on both the Rocker and Rocker II drums from the 80's. These drums didn't have the riveted wrap. My Rocker II was a nice kit, with Classic lugs from the factory.

-Mark

Very nice kit!