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This is an amazing Gretsch 50s “Round Badge” era drum set; unique in many ways. For one, Copper mist was only in the color line for about 4 years circa 1954-1958. Next, the set is ultra rare 8x12, 14x14, 14x20. Perhaps not so rare for the 60s era, but in the 3-ply days of the 50s, most sets were still 13/16/22 or 13/16/24. As a result, 3-ply 12/14/20 sets are rarely seen, especially in Copper Mist. Lastly, (and perhaps most importantly), this set was owned and used by Larry Bunker, a very prominent jazz drummer who played with everyone from Bill Evans to Stan Kenton, Ella Fitzgerald, Dizzy Gillespie, and so many more.
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This copper mist set can be seen in the accompanying video of Larry performing with Zoot Sims. Larry's solo starts around the 3:20 mark. Larry was tall. so he removed the two-hole Gretsch rail mount in favor of the Ludwig 4-hole variety, which is sturdier and mounted higher. The two holes from the Gretsch rail have bolts as shown. The other two top bolts are for the cymbal L arm bracket which he removed in favor of using a floor cymbal stand. Also, when Larry added the Ludwig rail he added a Ludwig bracket to the 12" tom. He used one of the holes for the original diamond bracket and then drilled one more hole for the Ludwig bracket. We put the original diamond plate back on, so the extra hole is hidden behind the bracket. Lastly, he swapped the 2-post 50s era floor tom leg brackets for the later, sturdier diamond brackets, which resulted in small extra holes behind the brackets. There is a bit of snare rub on the 12 as shown. A wonderful and rare example of “That Great Gretsch Sound”, with a great history and very strong provenance. Will be accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from Steve Maxwell.
Rockhurst Auctions is proud to announce our collaboration with Steve Maxwell Drums in our September 13 Rock & Roll Auction
Owner Steve Maxwell has sold more of the rarest drums and drum sets than anyone in the world during his 25+ years of authenticating, buying and selling extremely rare vintage drums and drums owned by prominent artists. This auction features eight special offerings specially curated by Steve for inclusion in this Rockhurst Auction. Enjoy.