Brand directory/Schilke
The maker’s archive

Schilke serial numbers.

Renold Schilke founded the company in Chicago in 1956; instruments are still built by hand near Chicago. Compiling.

Chicago precision.
Engineered horns.
In this archive
Serial numbers & production eras · 1961–1976
Result format
Year or estimated range
Additional details
Factory & series, when known
Start with your instrument

When was it made?

Where can I find the number?
Free to explore. No account needed.
Understanding your result
01 / Date

A year, or a range.

The record makes room for uncertainty when a precise year is unavailable.

02 / Context

A place in history.

Factory and production era appear alongside the date when supported by a source.

03 / Evidence

A traceable answer.

See the source behind a match and what still needs to be confirmed.

Serial number coverage
Schilke - segmented ranges (1961-1976+)
all_brass · 1961–1976 · 62 dating ranges
Compiled from 40 published sources — see the source library.
Preview an instrument record →
Model catalogue
Model lines documented
60
Browse Schilke models by year →
Frequently asked
What serial numbers does this archive cover for Schilke?

The archive currently covers 1 series and 62 dating ranges from 1961 to 1976, compiled from published maker records and reference charts. Coverage grows as new tables are verified.

Where is the serial number on a Schilke instrument?

The serial number is stamped on the second valve casing, next to the "Schilke Chicago USA" engraving; the model number is on the mouthpiece receiver. The exact spot varies by era and instrument type — the serial number guide walks through the common locations.

What if my Schilke serial number is not found?

Recheck the characters exactly as marked, including any letters and leading zeros. Letter-prefixed numbers often belong to student or non-domestic lines that cannot be dated from the number. Some production periods may simply not be covered yet.