[COLOR="Navy"]Hello Mike:
Notations such as that on your drum’s interior were simply factory worker “notes to self”, designating the hardware that was to be used on the finished shell and thus what the drum was to become. The notation in your drum actually designated it to get chrome-plated hardware (hoops, lugs, and strainer). If there was no notation it was understood that the hardware would be nickel, but for the less-commonly used chrome a note was in order. This note is a common one found on Slingerland drums made prior to 1955 with factory chrome hardware.
Slingerland factory shell markings, of which there are many, constitute a rather fascinating subject, one which I will cover in some detail in future articles.
Cjwebber:
While all the features on your drums are consistent with 1947, the most telling features that date your kit are these. The bass drum inlays are the post-WWII thin style; in 1939 they were much thicker. The lugs on your drums are large beavertails, which Slingerland first used in 1947. And the badge on your bass drum is the brass cloud with enamel filled letters, which Slingerland last used in 1947.
It all depends on what one might be looking for of course, but Slingerland Radio Kings from really any year hold value. Also please permit me to second Rich K.’s thoughts. The vintage drum market, in its own way, is exactly the same as the general antique and collectible market. Your Radio Kings, with their original finish, are historic and precious. Refinishing them will generally drop their value by more than half. The aged yellow patina of genuine WMP Radio Kings has a beauty all its own. Of course these are your drums and no one else’s.
If you wind up wanting to get a matching original 1947 floor tom I may be able to help, if you would like.
DrCJW[/COLOR]
http://www.vintagesnaredrums.com/drcjw/