Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry. Based on the photographs and description provided, the subject of this appraisal is an ND "Tip" Lamberson B-foot flute circa 1970s. The piece is silver in composition with a gold mouthpiece, and is Lamberson serial number #593. The piece is complete with an ND Lamberson signature solid hand-made wooden case with original green velvet interior, cleaning rod, and an original ND Lamberson leather zip case holder with handle.

According to the current owner, this professional-quality piece was acquired in 1981. Lamberson flutes are highly prized, but auction records are sparce, with no recent comparables able to form the basis of the appraisal. Therefore an examination of similar flutes available on the secondary market in retail settings coupled with recorded sales via second-hand online resellers serves as comparable sales.

In consideration of the factors noted, a Fair Market Value (pre-auction estimate) of this piece would be estimated at $4,000 to $6,000.