We know that London maker George Miller actually had a patent in October 1810 concerning these fifes. It was “A method of making wind instruments, commonly called military fifes, of substances never before used for that purpose”.  He explained that the best metal for their manufacture was a mixture of about one third copper to two-third of brass.

Later, there were also other makers of brass fifes, including the instrument maker James GISBORNE who was based in Birmingham, England. He advertised his “New Regulation Brass Fife”. D’Almaine & Co also produced these fifes. Thomas CROGER in London advertised in 1860, his “New Patent Brass Fifes”. They came with one key and a German silver lip plate, but also interestingly four keys too – not unlike the one we have here. He notes that the “fifes are of very fine quality of tone, and look exceedingly handsome”.

Without a stamp, we will probably never know who made this charming brass fife. It is in fact a B-fife, so the lowest note is a B. The instrument does plays at a=435 Hz. Condition-wise, there is some damage to the foot. Otherwise, the fife is in nice condition. The pads appear original and therefore left unchanged.

This unique four-keyed brass fife is truly one of a kind and is unlikely to be seen again anytime soon.

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