Ultra-rare, museum-quality Riviere & Hawkes Cornet

Riviere & Hawkes Cornet

I purchased this used about 7 years ago and displayed it in my room. However, since moving out for university, it has been stored away, so I am now selling it.

While I used it for display, it is playable.
The tone, subjectively speaking, is somewhat dark and has a very mellow impression, like a deeper version of the Boosey & Hawkes Imperial model.
Also, due to the era of its manufacture, the pitch is a bit low (around A=435Hz?). It is thought that by modifying the included B and A tuning slides, it may be possible to play at modern pitch.
Sound production, key operation, and slide movement have been confirmed.

Riviere & Hawkes appears to be a predecessor to Besson, and this cornet seems to have been manufactured in the late 19th century.
Judging from the engraving on the bell and the EXCELSIOR stamp, it appears to have been their top-of-the-line model at the time.
A paper with information about Riviere & Hawkes was included in the instrument case, so I have included it in the 10th image.

The instrument itself, along with the B and A tuning slides and mouthpiece, will be placed in the instrument case, and the instrument case will be wrapped in bubble wrap for shipping.
The instrument case is a wooden case that appears to have been made by a previous owner, so please consider it for transport.

This is a historically very valuable instrument, so I would appreciate it if it goes to someone who will cherish it.

Immediate purchase is very welcome! We may be able to offer a discount, so please feel free to inquire if you are interested.