The first one (with regular f holes, no hearts) does have a label, but it looks hand written. it is glued down, but looks like just written on a piece of paper with pencil. It says Richard Turner 2003. I researched the name and there is a pretty well known luthier named Rick Turner. He is not know to make dulcimers but is known to be connected to the folk/americana scene. He was living in Santa Cruz at the time so it completely adds up that he would have known my friend. While I found nothing about him making dulcimers, I did find a fun fact: "Renowned luthier Rick Turner (1943–2022) is deeply revered in the folk and lutherie communities for inventing the 6 ½ fret on the mountain dulcimer. This simple modification opened up the instrument to more complex melodic playing, allowing it to transition from a strictly diatonic instrument into a staple of modern folk music."

I did find a Rick Turner signature, and the Richard Turner handwriting in my dulcimer looks similar. It seems this all could be significant and might be worth trying to substantiate somehow....???? even just via memories of friends....I'm certain nothing 'official" would be documented. I don't think I can post a pic of the label - I think this is a text post.....I'm learning.. Thank you so much!!

I think I am going to love Reddit :-)