Solid silver flute from the Verne Q. Powell workshop, French mechanism (open keys) inline G, B foot, number 5010 (1977). In the early years, when Verne Powell the owner of the shop, only two models were produced: the “Handmade” and the so-called “Commercial”, the former based on the classic French instruments of the previous century and the latter loosely patterned after the work of Theobald Boehm.

“Handmade Custom” models (as they are called today) were considered “top of the line”, with soldered tone-holes, key arms extended over the pad-cups and without stack-key adjustment screws. The Commercials were built with flat pad-cups and the tone-holes were always extruded from the body tube. Powell #5010 was constructed with B foot, extruded tone-holes, .016 tube (body) and .014 head. We’ve carefully measured and confirm these figures.

The original case is in perfect original condition, with case-cover. Sounding length is 635 mm (A : 440) and the embouchure is 10.3 X 12.3 mm. The flute weighs 435 grams. 250 flutes were produced in 1977, half of them “handmade” and half “commercial”. Playing characteristics, “sound” are very similar to a “Handmade Custom” of the same time-period, with perhaps just a little more mellow lower register. But don’t think of this beautiful lady as being inferior to a HM Custom. The workmanship is top-notch and the keywork is smooth and friendly. 100% Made in America!

This superb example : $4850