To the best of my knowledge, the 3 dot stamp first appeared in the mid 50s. I believe the dots disappeared for a time in the late 50s, reappearing again in the early 60s, and disappearing again in the late 60s/early 70s.

As far as collectibility, they are because they're at least 40 years old - vintage. Soundwise, I've hear some that I liked and some that I didn't - heavy and clangy.

I hope this helps you a little. Hopefully drumaholic will chime in. He can give you much more detail on dates than I can. Until then, check out: http://www.hidehitters.com/cymbals/Zildjianstamps/timeline.html. There are others, such as Rob Scott.

Have a great Friday!

Lynn

Pointing somebody to Rob Scott or Hide Hitters is usually a good way to get a "these sources are wrong" comment from Drumaholic.

Its not hard to do with with a timeline that contradicts itself.

OOPS! I apologize. I've been comparing stamps to their sites for a couple of months now. Thank you, gentlemen, for letting me know they're wrong. Is there an online resource you would recommend other than Vintage Cymbal Guide?

Yeah....me.

That works for me! I'll try not to bug you too much. :p

Thanks!

Lynn