Rudy Mück Information Site

Serial Number List of Rudy Mück Instruments
Page Last Update 01/13/2014

This is a beginning, a starter list, of serial numbers we are accumulating. We have previously guessed at the dates as the only verified purchase dates we have are P. Zimmerman's serial 1425 in 1948 and N. Eldredge's Citation serial 2549 purchased April 13, 1959.  As well, the brochure link at the top gives a 1939 copyrighted brochure showing the Blessing-clone type horns which may or may not be a clue.

But since the dates on these seem to be all over the board, we are removing the dates unless verified by the owner.  If you have an explanation of how the serial numbers relate to dates, we'd sure like to know!

I've also received an explanation about serial numbers and manufacture dates from someone who has owned many Rudy horns and this is what they've said:

I am by no means an expert, but have collected a few Mück horns & can help you with their specs a bit...The serial lists can be deceiving, you never really know what you are buying until you get it.

Many lower numbers are not really his early horns, but imported from W Germany - post war (as Mück expanded his market, he stopped building all his own horns). These W German versions may have a very large bore .472"...These are similar/same as some of the York imports of the time.  If you want a NY Bach version, they don't come along often or cheaply...The Bachs will have a 3-5 serial, imports 3-6. The engravings are also varied, the Director model (with vertical, engraved lettering)...Others, I call 'reform school' or 'medallion' Mücks. They are imported & have a diamond shaped plate with "RM" on it...Still others were built using the Super Artist by Blessing. I have a cornet & trumpet of this version. Lastly, there are "French" models, (4M) that are balanced & seem to be like some early Buffet - Crampon offerings....

If you would like to include your instrument serial number here, please email us.