FEATURES
- Three side-action piston valves for smooth, fast response and easy maintenance
- Free-blowing design that promotes even airflow and stable intonation across registers
- Multiple bell configurations—upright “American” bell, fixed front bell, or adjustable front bell—for tonal versatility and projection control
- Shared engineering with Olds Ambassador models, providing proven performance consistency
- Durable brass construction with precise valve alignment and ergonomic balance suited for student musicians
*Includes Original Hard-shell Case and Mouthpiece
DESCRIPTION
The F.A. Reynolds
Emperor Baritone was developed as a dependable student-level brass instrument that offered excellent tone, reliable response, and durable construction. Designed for school band and educational use, the Emperor combined ease of play with professional-level craftsmanship inherited from Reynolds’ earlier designs.
The F.A. Reynolds
Emperor Baritone, serial number 2137XX, was manufactured in late 1965 or early 1966 at the company’s Abilene, Texas factory. This period marked a transitional phase in Reynolds’ history, reflecting both corporate restructuring and production shifts within the American brass instrument industry.
After Chicago Musical Instruments (CMI) acquired Reynolds in 1964, the company’s serial number sequence was reset, beginning at 200,000. According to records from
Contempora Corner, serial number 210000 corresponds to November 1965, while 220000 aligns with October 1966—placing this instrument firmly within that late 1965–early 1966 window.
All instruments from this period were stamped
“Made in Abilene, Texas,” signifying the move to the Abilene facility. It is noted that some components, such as bells, were produced at the F.E. Olds factory in Fullerton, California, and later assembled in Texas.
The
Emperor line itself originated in the early 1960s as a rebranding of the Roth student instrument series, following Reynolds’ sale to the Richards Music Corporation (RMC). When CMI took control, the Emperor was integrated into shared production with the Olds Ambassador baritones. These two models were structurally nearly identical, with variations limited to finish, engraving, and branding. The Emperor’s consistent craftsmanship and dependable performance earned it a reputation as one of the most reliable student baritones of its era.
This particular Baritone Horn has seen a lot of action over the years, but has remained in relative solid condition all things considered. There are several dings and a few pints on the bow of the instrument, but no major dents. Some discoloration of the metal is also visible with an assortment of scratches on the body and bell. The manufacturer made this model with a detachable bell and there are two working “spit-valves”. Our technician has adjusted the instrument for General Working Condition. It should be well-noted that although this Baritone Horn comes with the original Hard-shell case, the case itself is slightly out of round, but still strong and functional.
A non-original mouthpiece is also part of the package. If you are in need of reasonably priced Baritone Horn which is durable and seasoned from years of play; look no further.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Model: F.A. Reynolds Emperor Baritone
- Serial Number: 2137XX
- Year of Manufacture: Late 1965–Early 1966
- Manufacture Location: Abilene, Texas, USA
- Ownership Period: Chicago Musical Instruments (CMI) era
- Valve Type: Three side-action piston valves
- Bell Options: Upright “American” bell, fixed front bell, or adjustable front bell
- Construction: Brass body with nickel-silver trim (varied by finish)
- Design Characteristics: Responsive bore, smooth valve action, and balanced intonation
- Production Relationship: Shared design and components with Olds Ambassador Baritone
*Includes Original Hard-shell Case and Mouthpiece
