Hanson Saxophone Serial Numbers [repack]
A word of caution: do not trust a seller who claims a Hanson is “vintage 1990s” based solely on a low serial number without cross-referencing. Hanson only began large-scale production in the late 1990s. A “serial number 007” sounds impressive, but if the horn has modern features like a high-F# key and metal resonators, it is not from the 1980s. Always triangulate the serial number with physical features: early models have soldered tone holes and a different octave key mechanism compared to post-2005 instruments.
Your saxophone’s serial number is its fingerprint. For Hanson models, this number is typically found stamped on the back of the instrument's body tube, just below the thumb rest.
Unlike vintage American or French saxophones that follow strict chronological sequences spanning millions of units, Hanson utilizes a modern, alphanumeric system or short sequential batches. Modern Alphanumeric Coding
Unlike mass-produced Japanese horns, each Hanson has a personality. Because the Hanson family still answers their emails personally, you have the rare privilege of actually asking the builder about your specific horn.
If your serial number is 1,200 and the horn looks like a Selmer Mark VI clone, it is authentic. If it looks like a Yanagisawa 901, it is also authentic. Do not panic—check the stamp on the bell. It should say "Hanson, Marsden." hanson saxophone serial numbers
Hanson uses a distinct naming convention that helps identify the era and quality level of the instrument without needing a deep serial database:
Hand-built, bespoke models ordered directly from the Yorkshire workshop frequently feature unique prefixes or completely non-standard numbering conventions tailored to the specific commission. The Numbering System
Unfortunately, there isn't a comprehensive database that maps Hanson's serial numbers to specific production dates or model information.
When authenticating a Hanson's saxophone, look for: A word of caution: do not trust a
For comparison, while companies like Selmer Paris or Yamaha use sequential numbers that correlate to specific years in public databases, smaller boutique makers often use numbers that denote batch codes, technician identifiers, or specific custom build orders.
While the table provides a strong starting point, the most authoritative method is to contact Hanson Music directly.
Hanson saxophones have earned a strong reputation among woodwind players for their robust build quality, excellent intonation, and innovative design features. Based in Yorkshire, England, Hanson Winds blends modern manufacturing precision with traditional hand-finishing techniques.
: The team at Hanson maintains internal workshop ledgers. You can contact them via their official website or phone. Providing them with your serial number and photos of the engravings will usually yield the exact build month and year. Always triangulate the serial number with physical features:
Hanson Saxophone Company, also known as Hanson's or H.S.C., was a British saxophone manufacturer that produced instruments from approximately 1895 to 1950. During their operation, they created a wide range of saxophones, including sopranos, altos, tenors, baritones, and basses.
Often used on standard or earlier lines to denote Saxophone Alto, Saxophone Tenor, or Saxophone Soprano.
Identifiers marking specialized builds, such as raw brass, silver-plated, or gold-lacquered finishes. Batch and Bespoke Production
Because Hanson is a smaller brand, counterfeits are rare —but "Franken-horns" (saxophones assembled from random parts and stamped with a fake Hanson logo) appear on eBay occasionally.
