Vintage Musette Harmonica
Musical Instruments

Vintage Musette Harmonica

This is a vintage 10-hole diatonic harmonica, identified by the faint 'Musette' marking etched into the upper metal cover plate. The instrument features a standard sandwich-style construction with polished stainless steel or nickel-plated cover plates secured to wood or plastic internal comb, though the dark appearance of the mouth holes suggests a traditional pearwood comb common of mid-20th-century models. The metal surfaces exhibit significant age-related wear, including surface scratches, tarnishing, and light oxidation or rust spots consistent with years of use and storage. The rounded profile of the cover plates and the specific font of the 'Musette' branding suggest it was likely manufactured in Germany or Japan during the mid-to-late 20th century. The fasteners appearing at the ends show some surface depression, indicating they may have been tightened or serviced over time. While the structural integrity remains intact, the heavy patina and surface buildup on the mouthpiece area would require professional cleaning and legislative reed adjustment for modern playability. Despite the cosmetic wear, the craftsmanship reflects a solid mid-tier consumer instrument of its era.

Estimated Value

$25 - $45

Basic Information

Category

Musical Instruments

Appraised On

February 22, 2026

Estimated Value

$25 - $45

Item Description

This is a vintage 10-hole diatonic harmonica, identified by the faint 'Musette' marking etched into the upper metal cover plate. The instrument features a standard sandwich-style construction with polished stainless steel or nickel-plated cover plates secured to wood or plastic internal comb, though the dark appearance of the mouth holes suggests a traditional pearwood comb common of mid-20th-century models. The metal surfaces exhibit significant age-related wear, including surface scratches, tarnishing, and light oxidation or rust spots consistent with years of use and storage. The rounded profile of the cover plates and the specific font of the 'Musette' branding suggest it was likely manufactured in Germany or Japan during the mid-to-late 20th century. The fasteners appearing at the ends show some surface depression, indicating they may have been tightened or serviced over time. While the structural integrity remains intact, the heavy patina and surface buildup on the mouthpiece area would require professional cleaning and legislative reed adjustment for modern playability. Despite the cosmetic wear, the craftsmanship reflects a solid mid-tier consumer instrument of its era.

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