1930s Gretsch Gladstone 2-Way Snare Drum Gold Sparkle : 7 x 14

1930s Gretsch Gladstone Snare Drum

Size : 7 x 14

Finish : Gold on Gold

Billy Gladstone began producing drums using Gretsch shells in the 30s. These shells were made to his specifications (3 ply) and he was very involved in anything that had his name put on it. He developed this 3-way tuning system that allows the top and bottom heads to be tuned and adjusted from the top of the drum. Both independently and then the third option, tuning them simultaneously. This particular drum is stamped #295 which is one of the higher numbers known. These Gretsch Gladstone drums were produced prior to the Billy Gladstone snares, 50 of which exist.

In the 1930s, these drums would have sold for around $100, which was insanely high. Top dollar drums around this time where in the price range of $30. Considering this, many of these were played by endorsers.