Liberty Bell (It's Time to Ring Again) Sheet Music Appraisal
Category: Sheet Music
Description
This item is a piece of sheet music titled "Liberty Bell (It's Time to Ring Again)". The music is composed by Halsey K. Mohr and the words are by Joe Goodwin. The cover features a tan paper with black text and illustrations. The title is prominently displayed in large, stylized black letters. Below the title is the subtitle in parentheses. The composers' names are also listed. A circular illustration of the Liberty Bell is centered on the cover, and below it are three silhouette figures. One figure on the left holds a draped American flag with defined stripes. The figure in the center is seated and appears to be sewing or working with fabric, while the figure on the right stands upright with a sword-like object at their side. The publisher is listed as "Shapiro, Music Publishers, 224 West 47th Street, New York". There is text at the bottom left corner that lists the different formats the music was published in, including band, orchestra, male quartette, and also available on phonograph records and music rolls. There are handwritten markings near the composers' names and along the right edge, possibly ownership information or performance notes. The sheet music shows signs of age and handling, including potential creasing, edge wear, and possibly some staining, commensurate with its likely manufacture and use. The overall aesthetic suggests a historical period, likely early to mid-20th century. The craftsmanship is typical for mass-produced sheet music of that era.
Appraisal Report
Having examined the provided image of the "Liberty Bell (It's Time to Ring Again)" sheet music, I can offer an appraisal based on my visual assessment. The cover features a distinctive design with the Liberty Bell illustration and silhouette figures, typical of early to mid-20th-century patriotic sheet music. The presence of the publisher "Shapiro, Music Publishers" and the listing of various formats (band, orchestra, phonograph records) helps date the piece, likely between the 1910s and 1930s, aligning with the aesthetic. The condition, as observed in the image, appears consistent with age and use. There are visible signs of handling, potential creasing, and edge wear. Handwritten markings on the cover suggest historical ownership or use, which can add a small amount of character but doesn't significantly impact value unless they are from a notable individual. Authenticity appears likely based on the visual cues, but without a physical examination, I cannot definitively verify the paper type, printing process, or detect any potential reproductions. In-person inspection would allow for a thorough assessment of paper quality, printing impressions, and the presence of any repair work or staining not fully captured in the image. The market for vintage sheet music is generally modest, with patriotic themes often having slightly higher appeal. Comparables in similar condition typically sell in the low dollar range. Demand for this specific piece is not high, as it represents a common genre rather than a historically significant or rare composition. Factors impacting value include the condition (which is fair based on the image), the visual appeal of the cover art, and the patriotic theme. Without provenance documentation linking this specific item to a notable event or individual, the value is primarily driven by its collectibility as a period piece. For full authentication and a more precise condition assessment, a physical examination is essential. This would allow for detailed inspection of flaws, paper acidity, and any potential alterations or repairs. Provenance documentation, such as letters from the original owner or information about its acquisition history, could also potentially increase its value.
Appraisal Value
$10-20