1950s WFL (Ludwig) Drum Value?

http://www.vintagedrumforum.com/

The guys here will be able to give you an idea.  I checked in with them when I got my old Slingerland Radio King kit.  They were very helpful.

Without knowing any details about the drum I would guesstimate somewhere in the $100 to $150 price range.  The fact that you know the school of origin … the school associated color scheme may increase the value.  If you have the school logo drum head (it may have been calf skin) that would definitely increase the value … maybe upwards of $300 if you advertise in the right place and find the right buyer.

In case you are ever in the market or come across older looking drums:

In terms of collectability and demand, (drum kit) snare drums are usually on the top of the list.  Things like single ply Slingerland Radio Kings, early engraved Ludwig Black Beauties and wooden Rogers Dynasonics.  Depending upon condition and finish, they could be in the thousands of dollars.

14” floor toms tend to be money drums.  A popular Bebop configuration was/is  20”/12”/14”.  Often the 20” inch bass drum and 12” tom can be found without the very desirable 14” floor tom.

Any round badge Gretsch drums are collectable.

In terms of finishes (and independent of drum make), white marine pearl and silver sparkle are always in demand.

Some other example of drums that are collectable because of their finish are Ringo’s Ludwig Black Oyster finish, Ludwig Vistalites and Ludwig Psychedelic Red.

… I can go on all day about vintage drums.