Today, serial numbers help distinguish between their "Standard," "LX," and "Raw" series. The "British-Finished" Mystery 🎷
These examples provide limited reference points. While the raw brass baritone serial number 312xxx indicates a 2009 instrument, the manufacturing date of the Series VIII and ST6 models from 2010 suggests they are likely from the same general era. The potential overlap between the baritone serial number 312xxx and the manufacturing date of 2010 for the Series VIII and ST6 models suggests that instruments from the 312xxx range could be from 2009 or 2010, but there is no confirmation of a direct correlation.
Marking Hanson’s transition into world-class professional saxophone manufacturing. The "Raw" brass models became incredibly popular among jazz and commercial players for their immediate response and complex harmonic overtones. If your serial number belongs to a Raw or VL series saxophone, it represents Hanson's top-tier, British-finished craftsmanship. How to Verify and Date Your Hanson Saxophone hanson saxophone serial numbers
For the discerning saxophonist, the name Hanson carries significant weight. Originating in England, Hanson saxophones have carved a niche for themselves as high-quality, professional instruments, often compared favorably to vintage Selmers and modern Yamahas. Unlike mass-produced giants, Hanson’s production has been relatively boutique. This scarcity, combined with a reputation for rich tone and excellent mechanics, makes dating and authenticating a Hanson saxophone a crucial task for buyers, sellers, and collectors. The key to unlocking an instrument’s story lies in its serial number—yet unlike Selmer or Conn, Hanson’s serial system is less public and more nuanced. This essay provides a practical, research-driven guide to understanding, locating, and interpreting Hanson saxophone serial numbers.
Because many Hanson owners are loyal, original owners, a "Hanson" often has a known history, which is a great sign of a well-maintained instrument. If you are unsure of the date, let me know: What is the serial number? What model is engraved on the bell? Does it say "Made in England"? The potential overlap between the baritone serial number
To offer affordable student instruments, Hanson historically sourced high-quality components and body tubes from trusted overseas manufacturers (often in Taiwan), which were then meticulously padded, set up, and quality-tested in the Yorkshire workshop. These carry standard sequential serial numbers and are often marked "Designed in England." The Hand-Made British Era
Hanson saxophone serial numbers are unique identifiers assigned to each instrument during the manufacturing process. These numbers serve as a fingerprint, allowing you to track the instrument's history, production date, and specifications. Serial numbers typically consist of a combination of letters and numbers, which may vary depending on the model and production era. If your serial number belongs to a Raw
These are sometimes, but not always, numbered in a simple numerical sequence. Hanson VIII (The Professional)
The Ultimate Guide to Hanson Saxophone Serial Numbers Hanson saxophones are highly regarded for their British craftsmanship, acoustic innovation, and exceptional build quality. Whether you own a Hanson instrument or are looking to buy a used one, understanding Hanson saxophone serial numbers is the key to determining its age, model origin, and production history.
Since a comprehensive public chart doesn't exist, here is the most effective way to date your Hanson:
| Model | Approx. Year | Example / Range | Key Source / Notes | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Series 8 (SA8) Alto | | Range: 70xxx | Professional review, body from Germany, keywork from UK | | Raw Brass Baritone | 2009 | Specific #: 312xxx | Confirmed by factory; "only a handful" made in 2009 | | Series VIII (MKVI Pattern) | 2010 | Example #: HT50072 | Secondhand sale advertised as 2010 model | | LX (60) Tenor | 2013 | Range: H65xxx | Professional review, assembled in UK | | LX (60) Tenor | 2019 | Range: H95xxx | Later serial range from the same review |
