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Four valve top action BB flat with 20" bell engraved with USN? I have a match to this horn. It is not the best York I have ever played (I've played both CSO Yorks), you really have to work but it has the traditional York sound. The valves were shot in mine but after a valve job they are like new.

PhilW. wrote: As to the "U.S.N." engraving, what it means could be anyone's guess. Perhaps it was used in the U.S. Navy?

USN in this context is the US Navy.

PhilW. wrote:Anyway, a basic overhaul could be had with dent work, re-plating, and other things for under a thousand dollars.

Please provide name and address for a reputed repairman who will provide a “basicâ€

York made a lot of tubas for the military in the teens and twenties. Most of the type of model like what you have would be standard largish 4/4 size and were great band horns. They seem to be the most comon York BBb four valve horns out there. I don't know where the information was aquired but the cost mentioned for overhaul/ restoration is not even in the ball park. valve rebuild,dent work, plating, etc. try more like $3500-$4500. The plating costs alone would be more then the amount stated in the previous post. The horn is very old and will need a good deal of work to set it right. Best think it over before trying to make it your own. I myself grab them when ever I can but I have a thing for the old horns and cant seem to shake it. Any way, cool find!

Daniel C. Oberloh
Oberloh Woodwind and Brass Works

I think you'll see your horn (USN) and all at
CoolTubas.com
Dale

the top action valves make it a NO GO in my opinion, from an economics standpoint. if you get a valve and dent job and just want to play it yourself, then maybe...

My 1931 York 750 bore Sousaphone. I bought the thing on ebay and had Robb Stewart fix it up custom. Plays bigger and badder than any other.