>>>>If I never get a positive ID, might be fun to put a scripty decal on the down tube that says "Mystery Bicycle," and a "MB" decal on the head tube. Ann Phillips - Atlanta GA<<<<
Ann -
I can't identify the frame, but I love the story and the sentiment. I had a very similar experience some years ago.
I found a complete bike at a swap meet that had an interesting mix of old parts, but was in a serious state of neglect. The frame had a rattle-can, flat dark green paint job, but nice frame details, with nicely thinned long-point lugs. It was too big for me, but I couldn't resist. I stripped the parts and hung the frame in my basement shop. I also tried, unsuccessfully, to ID the frame. A local friend (who also has an early Sachs) was looking to build up a "Winter" bike, spotted the mystery frame and feigned interest, but I new he was intrigued. I sold it to him waay cheap. He built it up and rode it for a while, and found it to be a really sweet ride. He ultimately had S&S couplers installed and had it repainted. I still occasionally see him riding it. For the longest time (maybe still), he had no decals on it except for a large question mark sticker on the head tube where a badge would be. He figured that the question mark would promote inquiries and that, sooner or later, someone might identify the frame. If not, who built it would always remain a question.
Wayne Bingham Falls Church VA
LAABRS (Lonely Abandoned Abused Bicycle Reclamation Society)