Some useful tips on identifying important attributes of your instrument(s):

(leave blank any you're not sure of, don't know, or have no way of knowing)

-serial number

-everything written and/or stamped on your instrument

-condition of the instrument (rate of or lack of deterioration tells us a great deal)

-type(s) of braces

-type(s) of ferrules

-types of metal(s) the instrument is plated with

-types of metal(s) the instrument is made of

-method(s) used to finish the bell rim

-thickness of the metal in various places (bell, slide tubing)

-hardness of the metal (alloys range from soft to hard)

-anything distinctive (engraved pattern, sandblasted finish)

-anything out of the ordinary (folded, engraved rim; commemorative engraving; hallmarks; awards)

- Greg Monks