France
Besson

Brass
ca. 1909-1910
Length: 19 inches
Wind Instruments – Brasswinds – Trumpets

Engraved on bell:  (Banner – S / STEME PROTOR / PE) / LOGO / F. BESSON / BREVETE / S.G.D.G. / 96. RUE D’ANGOULEME / PARIS (5-pointed Star) / 66 HAUTES RECOMPENSES / 6 GRANDS PRIX / HORS CONCOURS / MEMBRE DU JURY
Engraved on 2^nd Valve: F. BESSON (5-pointed Star) / B SGDG / 92219; VALVES # 12  /11 / 10

This pre-war French Besson was performed on in the New York Symphony in the 1940’s – 1950’s before I acquired it.  It is in pristine condition and has been called the “Mystery Horn.”  Following WWII, a return to the factory revealed all the molds and equipment had been stolen during the war.  Many have tried to copy this horn, i.e., Bach, Benge, etc.  Miles Davis played one of these in the early days.  The tone on this horn is amazing.  The French Besson “Mystery Horn” is possibly one of the most sought-after horns in the trumpet world.