Help with age and value of my flute?

[tresbaby529]

I have an "ARTIST" flute. I see a serial number under one of the keys, and also on the middle and end section of my flute. It is 4 digits. Can anyone help me?

[JButky]

I have an "ARTIST" flute. I see a serial number under one of the keys, and also on the middle and end section of my flute. It is 4 digits. Can anyone help me?

Is it a Sankyo? It would say it on the barrel. The 401 model is know as the "Artist" Model. I can't remember if that is engraved on the barrel.

[Kaylyn]

To help you identify whether or not you have a Sankyo Artist flute, this is how they are usually stamped:

SANKYO FLUTE
MFG. CO.,
ARTIST
SAYAMA
JAPAN

Followed by a serial number.

I have heard of a brand just called "Artist" but I don't recall from where or what they are worth. Sorry that's not much help!

[Silversorcerer]

Artley once made an Artist model flute, but it has the typical vintage "Artley" fancy engraving style on the barrel. The model is rare, likely dating to the 1950s or earlier. I have only seen one for auction. It appears to be an intermediate/advanced model by the standards of its' day. "Artist" was a very common model name used by many instrument manufacturers over the decades including European and American manufacturers. It appears on several clarinets, flutes, and saxophones of varied manufacture. If there are unusual key mechanisms or other features, those might help identify the maker. In many countries, the country of origin is not engraved unless the instrument is built for export. That makes the "bought there, brought here" instruments more of a challenge to nail down concerning origin.