This is a 1925 Couesnon and Son trumpet produced in France at the beginning of the 20th century. The pineapple or grenade figure on the bell says 25, and after research, that means it dates to 1925, 99 years ago.

The condition of the instrument is excellent. There is very little degradation to the silver finish, which is unusual. It has a tuning slide that appears parallel to the first valve slide and is in full working order. The valves are fully functional, though need a service, and are dependable.

Playing wise it is quite heavy compared to a normal trumpet, though shorter in length. It is, however, longer than a traditional cornet or long model cornets. I have played it in a big band rehearsal and could play along with the band, but it was stamina zapping. It was also mostly in tune.

The most unusual aspect of the instrument is that the leadpipe neither fits a trumpet or cornet shanked mouthpiece, but does fit a flugel mouthpiece that I had. Nevertheless, it makes a nice briad Mellow sound when played.

The only thing that needs addressing is the reattaching of a bar that goes under the third valve slide. The original parts are in the case.

After looking into this instrument on the net and finding information on Couesnon; I couldn't find an instrument with this configuration on the page. Additionally, I haven't come across a similar one in any shops or places where I normally look. Therefore, I think it's quite rare.