Hanson Saxophone Serial - Numbers [upd]
Early Hanson saxophones often feature simple, sequential numeric stamps. Because the company was operating on a smaller scale, these numbers are low (often three or four digits). If you encounter a Hanson saxophone with a very low, purely numeric serial number and no prefix, it is likely an early standard or prototype model from their initial years of trading. 2. Modern Standard and Pro Series (2000s–Present)
If you are trying to identify the age or "paperwork" history of your instrument, follow these steps:
Hanson Saxophones, based in West Yorkshire, England, are highly regarded for their craftsmanship, acoustic design, and pioneering use of innovative materials like saxbrass and custom-engineered keys. Whether you are buying a used instrument, selling your current horn, or insuring your gear, understanding your Hanson saxophone serial number is essential.
You will find horns from this era with on one horn and Yanagisawa-style metal touchpieces on the next. Why? Hanson was buying raw tube casts from various suppliers before standardizing with their current German/Asian partners. hanson saxophone serial numbers
Matching your serial number with the physical characteristics of the horn helps narrow down its production era. Hanson's lineup generally falls into three eras: Era / Model Series Target Market Key Distinguishing Features Beginners & Upgrading Students
Hanson offers a transferable warranty on many of their horns, but they require the serial number to verify the original purchase date. If you buy a used Hanson, email the serial number to info@hansonsaxophones.co.uk to check if any warranty remains.
Usually 3-5 business days. They can often tell you the exact month of assembly, the original lacquer type, and even the technician who built it. You will find horns from this era with
Counterfeiting is rare for boutique brands, but verifying the serial number ensures you are paying for a genuine British-regulated instrument rather than a cheap stencil horn.
: On most Hanson saxophones, you can find the unique serial number engraved on the back of the body tube
A Hanson saxophone is not just a machine for making music; it is a piece of modern British craftsmanship. The serial number, whether a humble three-digit stamp from 1987 or a laser-etched code from 2023, tells the story of where your horn has been, who built it, and where it fits in the lineage of one of England’s finest saxophone makers. fully handmade horn
The serial number is also your primary tool for confirming a Hanson is genuine:
Do you need help identifying the (e.g., "Raw" vs. "Champagne" gold)? Share public link
While counterfeit Hanson saxophones are exceedingly rare compared to brands like Selmer or Yamaha, a legitimate, crisp serial number stamp guarantees you are buying a genuine piece of British engineering.
In this guide, we will explore how to read Hanson serial numbers, the history behind the numbering systems, how to date your saxophone, and why this matters for collectors and players.
| Model Name | Likely Era | Manufacturing Notes | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Early 2000s | Earlier models, used components from German and Chinese sources. Represents a transitional period. | | Series VIII, ST6, ST8 | Late 2000s - 2010s | Often referred to as "MKVI pattern" saxophones. Examples confirmed to have been made in 2010. | | LX Series (Tenor, etc.) | 2010s - Present | Top-tier professional model. Reported to be 100% made in Yorkshire, England . Represents the current pinnacle of Hanson's British manufacturing. | | Monarch Bronze Alto | Present | Current top-of-the-range, fully handmade horn, showcasing the latest evolution of their craftsmanship. |
