This is a very rare bird. The information about it was sent to me by Ron M. who would like to remain anonymous since the set is not for sale. He plans on keeping it in the family as an heirloom. He is looking for an appraisal for insurance purposes. I've already given him my opinion which was a range from high to low. I'm not disclosing that because I want to get YOUR unbiased opinions of its worth. You can comment below or email me george@notsomoderndrummer.com. Email me especially if you have any pics or documentation that would help in an appraisal. Here is what Ron had to say about it:
"My Dad's kit is stamped 1957 (snare); the added floor is stamped 1962 and is the only one with chrome plated hoops. It is really close to mint condition with original heads also in great shape. The other three pieces are in excellent condition as well - the sizes are so interesting. I found a 1957 WFL catalog and don't see the snare or tom sizes listed!
14x20 banded pearl bass
6.5x13 banded pearl snare
6.5 x 10.5 mounted banded pearl
The blue sparkle 16x18 floor (1962) was added later.
This '57 kit is a WFL 20 year anniversary kit - per my Mom. We are the first owner. It is a special set from Biascos on Chicago's west side; advertised in the window as an anniversary three piece. I confirm the sizes below. I have the original 10 1/2 inch hoop and calfskin but I put a hole in it some time ago. Remo made four custom replacements about 20 years ago. I have all four. The cymbal is very old but my mom doesn't know when Dad got it since he was only 14 when he got the kit. It measures just over 17" and is a heavy ride. The hardware in the original black case contains one newer ludwig cowbell - the other is original - but I busted the original wood block when I was a kid. I have all the mounting hardware, plus extras too. My mom said the cases are as old as she can remember (they met in ~ 1959) and the tags say ' covers, artistic product co’. The bass and floor heads are original. The bass and tom show the same handwriting inside in pencil. The snare and tom show the same writing in white pencil. The 6 1/2 x 13 snare has six lugs and is dated 1957. The 6 1/2 x 10 1/2 tom has five lugs. I can't easily find the dates on the bass or the tom. The floor tom is an early 60s match - it's the only drum with chrome hoops. The older drums are nickel and we have never touched them. The bass and floor have original heads. I also have original hardware and black case for the snare and accessories.