Old Stamp IVb (1959)
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The star and moon look different in this stamp, and “Made in Turkey” wraps around it. – |
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This 16″ cymbal has a lathing pattern sometimes seen on cymbals from this era, where the tonal grooves are clustered closer together, then spread apart in concentric circles. It makes the cymbal look like the rings of Saturn. |
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Underside of the above 16″ cymbal. |
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This ink stamp was found on an old stamp cymbal of this era. |
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The star and moon look different in this stamp, and “Made in Turkey” wraps around it. |
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This image, from a polished cymbal, provides the most detailed image of the Arabic, while the star above the crescent is missing. Still, the tight wrapping of the words “Made in Turkey” identify it as IVb. |
I have a 14″ cymbal with the ink stamp pictured above as well as an ink stamp signature. I’ve been fruitlessly combing the internet for any sort of indication of its value but your site is the only one that I can find that even recognizes its existence. What can you tell me about its origins/value?
These cymbals were hand-made in Istanbul (Turkey) for generations. If your cymbal has the above stamp it dates to the late 1950s. If it has the original ink stamping, signature under bell, and does not have any cracks or chips, it is likely worth a few hundred dollars at least. A pair of 14″ hi-hats could go for $1000. If your cymbal is very heavy (>1350 grams) it will be worth a little bit less.
Thank you so much for your prompt and informative response!