This is the Holy Grail of Link Slant Sig Tenor Mouthpieces! Here we have a 1st Model (there were 3 according to Theo Wanne) Rubber Slant Signature Florida Tenor Piece that is not only totally original and never messed with in any way, but, in near perfect museum quality condition AND with an original #6 facing marked on the table NOT on the side. No "USA" of course and this piece dates to the early 1950s Florida period of rubber links.
The facing, tip, rails are all perfect. The mouthpiece even exhibits much of its original shine, the rubber doesn't appear to have been exposed to the elements much. There are a few ligature scratches typical of a mouthpiece of this vintage yet there are virtually no teeth marks or indentation. I've always had a clear patch on it but took it off for the photos. The facing number is very lightly stamped on the lower table and is very hard to photograph, but under a magnifying glass you can see that it is unquestionably a "6".
NOW, how does it play? This is everything you would expect in a Florida slant sig of this vintage. Incredibly fat, warm (not stuffy) sound with an evenness throughout the entire horn that is hard to compare. Effortless response and great projection, just a super piece. I have no way of measuring the exact tip opening but it feels to be around .90 or little bigger. If it were bigger, I'd keep it but I am most comfortable on tip openings between .110-.115 and I would never have this piece worked on so hopefully someone out there will appreciate itthe way it is!
Please see my jpgs below and feel free to e-mail me with questions at JLapine@aol.com
I am including FREE Worldwide Shipping and Insurance with this piece. Payment by PAYPAL (preferred) or MONEY ORDER ONLY and must be received within 7 days of auction closing. I will e-mail the high bidder within 24 hours of auction closing. E-mail me with any questions.