I have an LA Benge trumpet that I have played for nearly fifty years The serial number is 9848, and I in my retirement have started to see thing on this horn. In one particular spot where the silver plate has worn off is a cartoon picture. In other places like the valve inlays show wear and tear and letters that morph into a different one. The kicker is the super tiny script that is running from bell to lead pipe. I hope I get some serious help with this trumpet.
It might be that your instrument was made out of repurposed metals, and wasn't fully melted down prior to its use. Interesting find - may be worth the research to find out.
