@dale-proctor Thank you for this information. I was able to reasonably peg the date as 1872 instead of the previously thought 1875.

Matt Ward

Thanks to all for these informative replies. I guess the European custom of numbering valves consecutively as they were made explains it, but I don't see the logic they were using unless it was critical that valves 22,23,24 went specifically into valve casings 22,23,24. Do you think they lacked so much uniformity that they wouldn't fit other three valve gangs of the same model? Right now, I'm having a problem with the middle valve sticking. It was working fine until I took the cornet apart for a cleaning. After putting it back together, the middle valve is sluggish and will frequently stick in the down position. I'm taking it to a repairman tomorrow.

@dale-proctor Thank you for this information. I was able to reasonably peg the date as 1872 instead of the previously thought 1875.

Matt Ward

I have a sweet little Besson Brevette Cornet, serial number 13643, silver plated. On the bell is inscribed: F. Besson Brevette; 19 S Euston Road, London; Louis Schrieber , Sole Agent, U. States,
26 medals from all nations.

There is a "P" stamped just above the Besson trademark on the middle valve casing. One expert suggested that this "P" means it was actually made in Paris though the bell says London. Maybe the core of the cornet (the three valves connected) was made in Paris and the rest in London? It has slides to convert from Bb to A.

This cornet is very light. I have the feeling that, if I pressed my finger tip against the inside of the bell, I should see the fingerprint on the other outside! It is extremely easy blowing and has a wonderful, dark tone.

The mystery is regarding the three valves. Most trumpets/cornets have the numbers 1, 2. 3 impressed somewhere on the valve itself so it won't get put into the wrong valve casing when reassembling after a cleaning. But this cornet has the numbers: 22, 23, 24. WHY?