Questions about my Armstrong Flute

[efunk44]

Hello!

I have an Armstrong Flute 80 with the serial number 6461802. The whole thing is made out of sterling silver with the headjoint being thin wall. I am curious as to what this serial number means because I have no idea how to read it. I found a serial number chart on conn selmer but I don't know how to read it. I think the 6 is the prefix so it was made in 1973? But if someone could verify that would be awesome.

I am so curious to see what the quality of my flute is so if someone could let me know that would be awesome. Thank you!

[pied_piper]

A lot of the manufacturers stopped keeping accurate records of their serial numbers. That seemed to start back in the 80's. The "prefix" serial numbers you mentioned on Armstrong flutes are 2 digits, a dash, plus 5 more digits. For example: Serial# 24-58637 = 24 + 50 = 1974. In your case, the serial number is 7 digits with no prefix. Yours is a later model for which Conn-Selmer, the parent of Armstrong, has not published serial numbers. You can try contacting Conn-Selmer, but I suspect they will not be able to tell you when it was made. I suspect yours has a B foot and a gold plated lip plate. Yes?

The Armstrong Model 80 is a good, but not great, flute. I have one that was made around 1970 and I use it for a backup flute. The Model 80 flutes are solid and reliable, but not really sought after by advanced or professional players because there are better flutes in the same price range. They seem to be somewhat popular with doublers who play sax.

[efunk44]

Ohhhh okay. That's why I was so confused when looking at the chart. I was put off by the "prefix" and I wasn't sure what that was on my flute but it doesn't have one. And it is an inline with a B foot but it doesn't have a gold plated lip. Thank you!

And thank you! This is great to know! I have been playing with this flute for about 5/6 years. I like this flute a lot but I think it is definitely time for me to upgrade. Looks like I will be looking at other forums for that. Thanks again! You've been a great help! :]

[pied_piper]

You should read through the Fluteland FAQ:
http://www.fluteland.com/board/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=5859

It has lots of good info about shopping for a an upgrade flute...

[efunk44]

oh my gosh this is just what I was looking for!!! Thanks so much for your time and all of your help!

[pied_piper]

You're very welcome! Glad to be of help.