Hanson Saxophone Serial Numbers -
To better understand where your serial number fits into the Hanson timeline, it helps to identify the specific model line: The Student and Intermediate Era (LX and SA8)
Many standard Hanson models, including the popular and Hanson SA8 student-to-intermediate lines, utilize straight sequential numerical stamps.
For saxophonists seeking a professional-grade instrument without the stratospheric price tag of a vintage Selmer or Yamaha, the brand has become a revered name. Founded in the heart of England, Hanson has carved out a niche by producing high-quality, hand-assembled saxophones that rival their continental competitors.
Hanson has become a pioneer in environmentally conscious instrument manufacturing, famously celebrating milestones like becoming the world's first certified carbon-neutral musical instrument manufacturer. Modern Hanson saxophones boast incredibly precise, laser-engraved serial numbers and logos, showcasing the highest level of fit and finish in the company's history. 4. How to Accurately Date Your Hanson Saxophone
Look on the back of the body tube, usually near the hook for the neck strap or just above the bell flare. hanson saxophone serial numbers
Locating the serial number on a Hanson saxophone is straightforward, as they follow standard industry placement practices.
Before we dive into the world of serial numbers, let's take a brief look at the history of Hanson saxophones. The company was founded in the early 20th century by a group of skilled instrument makers who shared a passion for creating high-quality saxophones. Over the years, Hanson saxophones have become renowned for their excellent playability, rich tone, and stunning craftsmanship.
: Standard production tiers often differentiated by material and keywork.
Hanson Music in Yorkshire still provides maintenance and repair services. A serial number allows them to trace the exact, hand-built specifications of your particular saxophone. To better understand where your serial number fits
Because Hanson is a relatively new manufacturer compared to the vintage giants, there isn't a vast, complex century-spanning database of serial numbers. However, understanding their numbering system and production history is essential for buyers, sellers, and owners looking to date their instrument or verify its specifications.
Unlike large-scale mass producers, Hanson is a smaller, often bespoke, workshop. This means their serial numbers are typically more straightforward, often directly correlating to the year of manufacture rather than complex, multi-brand coding systems. Where to Find Hanson Saxophone Serial Numbers On most Hanson saxophone models (including the popular , , and ), the serial number is located in one of these areas:
Hanson Saxophones, a family-owned British company founded by Alastair Hanson in 1989, has grown from a specialized workshop into one of the most respected modern woodwind manufacturers. Based in Marsden, West Yorkshire, the company is unique for producing the first British-made saxophones in nearly a century.
However, because Hanson is a smaller, specialized manufacturer (compared to mass-production giants), information about their serial numbers can be notoriously difficult to find. Unlike Selmer or Conn, there is no single, government-published ledger for Hanson serials. Hanson has become a pioneer in environmentally conscious
Accompanying makers' marks on newer, premium models indicating the specific workshop tier. Understanding Hanson Serial Number Formats
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On some custom or early models, additional batch numbers or model names may accompany the main serial number near the base of the body tube.
The most effective way to determine your saxophone's age is to contact Hanson directly. They maintain their own internal records.
, I can help you look for similar models and their estimated production windows. Saxophone Serial Numbers: Info & Chart
: High-end custom builds or professional models often feature a distinctive prefix or a clean, sequential numerical system detached from standard production lines. 2. Sequential Numbers