4.3 Musser Canterbury marimba from the 1950's. Graduated Klyposeros (Cocabolo) bars 1 5/8 x 3/4 x 7 1/2 inches (high C) to 15/16 x 2 1/2 x 18 inches (low A) finished in black, 3 rows of brass resonators, white cream frame with ornate gold accents. Each end of the marimba has gold "fins" that match the resonators. The large end of frame sports dials for temperature meters. The "Thermodyne" tuning system, allows the resonators to be easily tuned, depending upon temperature and humidity conditions, by rotating a screw mechanism.
The Canterbury marimbas and vibraphones were the premier instruments designed by Clair Omar Musser for his company, Musser Marimbas, Inc., during the 1950s. The Model 500 features dual, arched, brass resonators finished in a bright, burnished gold. The ivory-finished wood and metal frame had a streamlined shape, decorated with gold-colored trim, and features recessed wheels for an elegant appearance. One owner. Dims: H-36.5 W-34 L-81 inches