Leedy & Ludwig Rare 1951 The Reliance 6.5x14 8 Lug Nickel Over Brass Snare Drum

For your supreme viewing pleasure is this rarely seen 1951 Leedy & Ludwig Reliance snare drum in 6.5x14.  This solid nickel over brass no-nonsence snare drum was a one year only offering that debuted in the 1951 Leedy and Ludwig catalog, and then disappeared forever.  It is constructed of a heavy one piece brass shell with a vertical seam that is visible from both sides, and weighs just shy of 9lbs.  The 8 early nickel plated Imperial lugs use special backing brackets which fortify the the unique bead-less shell.  The original Ludwig "Quick Throw-Off" strainer operates smoothly and functions perfectly.  The shell is in remarkably well taken care of condition and is free from scratches, dings and damage.  The nickel platting looks great with very minimal freckling.  Aside from the heads and a beautiful set of Pure Sound wires, this drum is completely original including the tension rods and washers.  It takes modern heads perfectly, and tunes up wonderfully.  This drum sounds incredible and has a gorgeous elegant yet minimalist look to it with the combination of the small strainer, nickel single flange hoops with clips, and Imperial lugs.  It has a very direct and immediate warm yet punchy and present sound, due in part from the initial sound wave from top head not being interrupted midway by a center bead on the way down to the resonant head, bearing a great mid-range presence often lost on metal drums.  Due to this drums amazing combination of rarity, usefulness, and condition, it would easily be at home amongst the finest of collections, studios, or stages.  Enjoy!