question on markings and dating an Upright

[tangels83]

I bought a bass a year ago and I can not figure out who made it and when its from. I found old newspaper clippings that date back to around the 50's and the only other thing is a #9955 in pencil/lead on the inside.
Another thing I was wondering is there is this big wear mark, etched into the front near the neck about 1/2 way down the top half. I cant figure out what caused it. Someone siad maybe a tie with a clip but I am not sure. Does anyone know what could have caused this or how to figure out when my bass is from?
Theres no insciption on the bass like Kay or anything else. Please help. Thanks.

I tried to upload pics but kept saying failed. sorry.

[PNeher]

Best to take it to a dealer of basses (a string shop that also deals in good quality violins-cellos). The numbers might indicate a school-purchased or orchestra-purchased bass, or one made for schools or orchestras. Pictures of basses, in researched books, are one of the things fine dealers use to assess a bass. Chances are very good that your bass is a "shop" bass, not a pedigree (especially with no label and with numbers stamped in it) but sort of mass produced. They were not uncommon in many parts of Europe and in the USA. What is it worth is up to a fine dealer. If plywood and not a Kay, it is not worth as much as if it is an old Kay. Plywood basses are generally less valuable than "wood" (spruce top, maple sides and back, ebony fingerboard).
Best of luck and Happy Holidays!
PN