Model 41-L | same as Model 40-L | no first-valve "trigger" mechanism

Model 41-M | same as Model 41-L | Bore: .458"

No image(s) available.

Model 40-L | Bb trumpet with first-valve "trigger" mechanism; optional third-valve trigger | Bore: .462" | Bell: 4-5/8" Bronz-o-lyte bell with nickel-silver tone ring | Body: brass with nickel-silver upper valve casings (balusters) and trim; bronze-alloy mouthpiece receiver | Valves: top-loaded, inner-spring Monel valve pistons | Finish: clear lacquer finish; optional silverplate with bright bell or gold bell finish | Length: 21½"

Model 40-L [SN 45394]. Photo source: eBay.

1953 catalog: "The Reynolds Contempora Trumpet embodies the ultimate in fine playing qualities demanded by today's artists. Beautifully designed from mouthpipe to its graceful Bronz-o-lyte Bell, it features monel steel valves for a lifetime of accurate performance. Every detail of this instrument is so carefully crafted that the Contempora is truly the pride of Roth-Reynolds. Each instrument is tested by outstanding symphony musicians before it leaves our factory."

1958, 1959 catalog: "Brilliant tone amplified by the Bronz-o-lyte bell. Contempora trumpets are masterpieces of perfection. The first trumpet with perfected Monel valves achieved after many years of research and engineering. Excellent balance. Available with or without first valve trigger for delicate intonation adjustments. Each Contempora trumpet is rigidly tested by members of the Cleveland Symphony Orchestra to insure perfection throughout. Possesses sparkling tone that makes the instrument literally come alive in your hands!"

Model 41-L | same as Model 40-L | no first-valve "trigger" mechanism

Model 41-L. Photo source: eBay.

Model 43-L | C trumpet with first-valve "trigger" mechanism | Bore: .462" | Bell: 4-5/8" Bronz-o-lyte bell with nickel-silver tone ring | Body: brass with nickel-silver valve casings and trim | Valves: top-loaded, inner-spring Monel valve pistons | Finish: clear lacquer finish; optional silverplate with bright bell or gold bell finish | Length: 21½" | Note: introduced in the mid-1950s (appears in 1958 catalog, but not the 1953 catalog)

Model 43-L [SN 51074]. Photos used with permission from Santos Rivera, Jr. (West Texas A&M University).

After Richards Music bought Reynolds in 1961, the Contempora trumpet catalog was collapsed into a single large-bore Bb model and a C model. The Bb trumpet (now known as model TU-11) appears to be the same as the prior Contempora "Leonard Smith" Model 40-S.

Model TU-13 | C trumpet | First-valve trigger | Bore: TBD"| Bell: TBD" Bronz-o-lyte bell with nickel-silver tone ring | Body: TBD | Valves: TBD | Finish: TBD

Model TU-13. No images available.

Model TU-11 | Bb trumpet | First valve trigger | Bore: .468"| Bell: 4¾" Lubaloy bell with nickel-silver tone ring | Body: brass with nickel-silver valve casings, slides and trim | Valves: top-loaded, inner-spring valve pistons | Finish: polished brass finish with epoxy coating

Model TU-11. 1970 Catalog.

1966 catalog: "Choice of professionals for exceptional projection and carrying power in all dynamic levels. Easy-action solid monel-nickel valve pistons for longer wear. Nickel-silver slides, trim and tone ring; bronze alloy bell. First-valve trigger for more precise control over intonation."

1970 catalog: "The Contempora is the choice of today's finest trumpet players. Precision engineering and quality craftsmanship combine to give the professional musician exceptional intonation and powerful projection. Fast-action valve pistons are silent and smooth. The addition of a bell tone ring takes out vibration-roughness and allows the player to 'focus' a rich, dynamic sound. Finish is highly polished brass with long lasting epoxy coating."

Model TU-10 | Bb trumpet | First valve trigger | Bore: .464" | Bell: 5" red-brass bell (no tone ring) | Body: brass valve casings and leadpipe; nickel-silver slides and trim | Valves: top-loaded, inner-spring valve pistons | Finish: polished brass finish with epoxy coating

Model TU-10 [SN 282192]. Photo(s) used with permission from Don Rugg of Relic Rescue (eBay Member: relic_rescue).

1977 catalog: "A large bore instrument with a dynamic sound designed for professional work. Quality craftsmanship and precision engineering provide exceptional intonation and powerful projection. Fast-action valve pistons insure a quick and immediate response. 3rd valve slide throw and 1st valve trigger."

Model Notes

Early Contempora trumpets (1949-1955?) had upper valve casings made of what appears to be Bronz-o-lyte; Reynolds changed to nickel-silver casings sometime in the mid 1950s, perhaps in conjunction with the development of the Leonard Smith model?

Model 40-L [SN 33231]. Photos used with permission from David Jordan (eBay Member: ddjordan5039).