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Medalist Trumpets

Introduced in 1961 by Reynolds/RMC, the Medalist trumpet replaced the Roth model as the low-end student instrument in the catalog. 1961-1963 models were produced by E.K. Blessing for Reynolds in Elkhart, Indiana. After the merger with Olds in 1964, Medalist models had a great deal in common with the Olds Ambassador models.

Model History | Specifications

1961-1963 | F.A. Reynolds/RMC (Cleveland)

Model TU-58 | Bb trumpet | Bore: .470" (need to confirm) | Bell: TBD" brass bell | Body: brass with nickel-silver braces | Valves: top-loaded, inner-spring valves | Finish: TBD

1961 Print Ad: "When you try the other two leading brands of school instruments, we sincerely believe that you will notice an RMC Medalist has 'that wee bit more.' Small but significant differences which mean so much to the school musician. Despite our modest price tags, we have no stripped-down 'economy models.' Each RMC Medalist instrument is built up to (and often beyond) highest standards for young musicians."

Model TU-58 [SN 99267]. Photos used with permission from eBay Member: ez4u2bcool.

Model TU-58 | Same as above except with nickel-silver tuning slides (same as Model TU-58 below)

Model TU-58 [SN 133907]. Photos used with permission from eBay Member: tar53.

1964-1970 | F.A. Reynolds (Abilene, Fullerton)

Model TU-58 | Bb trumpet | Bore: .460" | Bell: 4¾" brass bell | Body: brass with nickel-silver tuning slides | Valves: top-loaded, inner-spring valves | Finish: polished brass with baked epoxy coating

1966 catalog: "Created for students, but with most of the features usually found only on higher-priced instruments: Contempora-type valve system; five-piece mouthpiece-to-bell bracing; solid nickel-silver tubing on the outside of all movable tuning slides; three-piece solid nickel-silver water key with machined bridge. Professional mouthpiece, music lyre and modern case included."

1970 catalog: "The Medalist offers the student musician features usually found only in higher-priced horns. Features like: top loaded innerspring valves, 'live' bell, and a professional mouthpiece. Each of these important considerations was a factor in determining the acoustical design of the Medalist. Easy-blowing characteristics do not hamper the output. A minimum of breath produces a large, full sound."

Model TU-58 [SN 234929]. Photo source: eBay.

Model TU-58T | Same as above with first-valve slide "trigger"

1968 Price List.

1971-1979 | Reynolds (Fullerton)

Model TU-58 | Same as Model TU-58 above

1977 catalog: "The Medalist is carefully crafted to permit the student to progress to the best of his natural ability. Easy blowing characteristics do not hamper output. A minimum of breath, through the tapered mouthpipe, produces a large, full sound. The smooth valve action responds to the lightest, fastest touch."

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