this is from page #18 of Rob Cooks Slingerland Book,, quote As near as can be determined, This was the first type drum sold under the Slingerland name.It was similar to the body of a banjo in it's tensioning system; banjo key was used to adjust the tension rods,which threaded into banjo keys which gripped the flanges cast into the shell.The drum was patented by Otto Geisler and appeared in the market place first with the Geisler badge, then the Liberty Musical Instrument Company badge, and finally with the Slingerland badge. The patent was filed on Oct 8 1924.

Thanks! Any idea of value or interest level for collectors or players? Seems to be in excellent condition considering the age of the drum (except for the split heads, of course).

Hi John,

Very cool, very old drum! Vintagemore's above description is on the money.

The split heads aren't of much concern as they could be replaced easily enough. Any cleaning would be best left to a potential buyer assuming you're looking to pass it on.

To take a wild guess at the value: $200 - $300 range based on scarcity and the novelty factor. I'm not sure anyone would play the drum but it's a neat historical piece.

-Lee

Thank you both. I feel lucky to have such expert feedback from a couple of drum gurus. I definitely look forward to getting it into more capable hands than my own for a cleanup and head replacement. Unless I decide to turn it into a banjo! ;)