Hanson Saxophone Serial Numbers
The saxophones produced by the Hanson Music Company represent a fascinating, modern chapter in the history of instrument manufacturing. Unlike the century-old lineage of American brands like Conn or Selmer, Hanson saxophones are a British success story that began in the late 20th century, focusing on affordability without sacrificing professional-grade construction.
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.
Maintenance Note: Why Hanson Serial Numbers Matter for Repairs
When ordering replacement parts (pads, corks, springs), knowing your serial number helps identify the bore size.
- Pre-2000 (Serial <850): French taper bore. Use Selmer-style pads.
- Post-2000 (Serial >851): Hybrid bore. Use standard Yamaha style pads.
Additionally, the screw threads changed in 2010 (Serial ~4,500). If you lose a pivot screw on a #7,800 horn, a screw from a 2023 horn (#18,000) will not fit. Always quote your serial number to a repair technician. hanson saxophone serial numbers
How to Date Your Hanson Saxophone Using Serial Numbers
Since Hanson is still an active, family-run business, the most accurate method is to email them directly with your serial number. They are famously responsive and will give you the exact year of manufacture, original model, and sometimes even the original finish.
However, for a ballpark estimate, use the following approximate serial number-to-year chart, compiled from owner-submitted data and Hanson’s historical posts.
| Approximate Serial Number Range | Estimated Year | Notes | |--------------------------------|----------------|-------| | 100 – 500 | 2001 – 2003 | Early SA series (first models) | | 500 – 1,000 | 2004 – 2006 | ST4, SA5, first tenors | | 1,000 – 2,000 | 2007 – 2009 | LX series introduced | | 2,000 – 3,500 | 2010 – 2013 | AE (Alchemy) series begins | | 3,500 – 5,000 | 2014 – 2016 | ST8, improved keywork | | 5,000 – 7,000 | 2017 – 2019 | Increased production, global distribution | | 7,000 – 8,500 | 2020 – 2022 | Pandemic-era instruments | | 8,500 – 10,000+ | 2023 – present | Modern production (LX, AE, SE series) | The saxophones produced by the Hanson Music Company
Note: These ranges are approximations. Hanson produces roughly 500–800 saxophones per year, so the progression is steady.
Why the Serial Number Matters for the Owner
Because Hanson saxophones are modern, the serial number serves two primary practical purposes:
- Warranty Verification: Hanson saxophones are renowned for their warranty (often marketed as a "Lifetime Warranty" for the original owner). The serial number is the unique identifier used to validate this warranty. If you are buying a used Hanson, the serial number allows the new owner to check if the warranty is transferable or if the instrument is a legitimate Hanson product.
- Replacement Parts: As a modern manufacturer, Hanson keeps spare parts in stock. If you need a specific pivot screw or a replacement key guard, providing the serial number ensures you get the part that matches the production run of your specific horn.
The History of Hanson Saxophones
Hanson Music was established in 1989 in West Yorkshire, UK, by Alastair Hanson. Initially a repair shop, the company eventually moved into manufacturing. Unlike many modern brands that simply stencil mass-produced instruments from China, Hanson designed their own instruments and initially manufactured them in the UK, before moving production to a dedicated facility in China where they maintained strict quality control. Pre-2000 (Serial <850): French taper bore
This distinction is vital: a Hanson is not a generic "stencil" horn. It is a proprietary design.
10) Practical example (how to research a specific serial)
- Suppose serial “H-045678” on an alto with “Made in China” stamp:
- Photograph stamp and instrument.
- Note features (single brace type, rolled tone holes, engraving pattern).
- Search “Hanson alto H-045678” and “Hanson alto Made in China serial” on marketplaces and forums.
- Compare with sold listings (check photos for identical engraving/brace/key shapes).
- If uncertain, post images on a saxophone forum and ask for help—include serial photo and full instrument shots.
Decoding the Prefixes
Unlike Yamaha or Selmer, Hanson rarely uses letter prefixes before the number. If you see "L-5000," the 'L' is part of the model designation written elsewhere, not the serial. If there is a letter in the serial number, it was likely a custom order or a prototype.
However, be aware of Suffixes:
- R or A after the number: Usually signifies a "Reconditioned" or "Artist approval" horn (rare).
- /2 or /3 : Indicates a second or third run of a specific limited edition.
8) How to verify authenticity and condition for buyers
- Ask the seller for clear photos of the serial, bell, neck, and keywork.
- Verify that serial placement and font match other verified examples of the same model.
- Check for consistent wear patterns; mismatched wear between components may indicate replacements.
- Get an independent inspection by a qualified repair tech if purchasing used.