Just bought a 1948 Radio King

The Duco finish is not original, but WAS offered in the red/gold. Hardware is nickel. Funny thing. The top rim has the Radio King engraving in two places.
Never seen or heard of that before. Heads are a bit tight so may have to find some that are a little larger, but she sounds awesome.

Very nice and let me be the first to offer congratulations on your find.

I recall from some drum literature, which unfortunately I don't have to hand right now, that the engraving in the rims is indeed a known feature of RKs.

Dimensions weren't as standardised back in those days too. I had some Premier's from the early '60s and had to buy some specific Remo Ambassador heads that were ever so slightly larger in diamater so they would fit.

That was a long time ago and nowadays the choice for "retro-fit" heads should be bigger. Or so I gather.

Aquarian makes their American Vintage line which are slightly oversized for older drums. Batter and snare side heads.

Winston_Wolf said:

Aquarian makes their American Vintage line which are slightly oversized for older drums. Batter and snare side heads.

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Thanks. I will get some.

Congrats that's a beauty of a drum!

FB forum for Slingerland devotees/experts https://www.facebook.com/groups/drumkey1/

Nice.....and in good condition. Iconic snare drum.
I have a late 50's RK but with stick saver hoops, my fave snare I've ever owned.

That finish reminds me of this: