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.
Generally, older does not always mean more expensive for Hanson. Unlike Selmer, the market prefers modern Hansons.
A clean, clearly legible serial number that can be verified by the factory significantly stabilizes the resale value on the used market, proving the instrument's pedigree to prospective buyers.
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. hanson saxophone serial numbers
Deciphering Hanson serial numbers requires a slightly different approach than with vintage giants like Selmer or Conn. Unlike those historical brands with publicly available, decade-by-decade charts, Hanson’s serial number system is not widely published. However, some key data points have been documented:
The series—designed in collaboration with internationally renowned saxophone scholar Peter Baunton—follows a highly specific numbering system. Because these instruments feature unique design elements like specialized tone holes and custom alloy blends, their serial numbers are meticulously logged in the Hanson master workshop registry to track the exact build specifications and delivery date. Hanson Saxophone Production Timeline
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. Hanson Saxophone Company, also known as Hanson's or H
If you need definitive verification of your instrument's history, follow these steps:
Hanson builds instruments in dedicated workshop batches. As a result, certain production runs share tight numerical clusters. For fully bespoke, custom-ordered saxophones, the serial markings occasionally deviate to reflect the unique build order or specific customization requests of the purchasing musician. Hanson Saxophone Models Over Time
However, through years of owner-reported data, forum discussions (e.g., Sax on the Web, Café Saxophone), and dealer listings, a useful empirical chronology has emerged. While unofficial, this data provides a reliable framework: Unlike Selmer, the market prefers modern Hansons
Features specialized "saxbrass" alloys, custom setup options, and high-grade Italian leather pads. How to Verify Your Serial Number and Production Date
Hanson Saxophone Serial Numbers: The Complete Identification Guide
For the discerning saxophonist, the name carries significant weight. Based in Marsden, West Yorkshire, England, Hanson Saxophones have carved out a unique niche in the market. They are revered as the "people's professional saxophone"—handcrafted instruments offering boutique quality and intonation that rivals French heavyweights (Selmer, Yanagisawa) at a fraction of the price.