For the discerning saxophonist, the name Hanson 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.
But whether you are a collector looking at a vintage Series VI, a student buying a used RA Series, or a player verifying a new TA Series, one question always arises: What does the serial number tell me?
Unlike the extensive, century-spanning ledgers of Conn or Selmer, Hanson’s history is shorter, more intimate, and surprisingly analog. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Hanson saxophone serial numbers: how to date your horn, identify the model, spot fakes, and understand the factory history.
Because Hanson saxophones are modern, the serial number serves two primary practical purposes:
You're looking for information on Hanson's saxophone serial numbers. Here's what I found:
Hanson Saxophone Company
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.
Serial Number Ranges
According to various sources, including saxophone collector communities and historical records, here are some approximate serial number ranges for Hanson's saxophones:
Keep in mind that these are approximate ranges, and some overlap may exist.
Decoding Hanson's Serial Numbers
The serial numbers on Hanson's saxophones typically consisted of a combination of letters and numbers. Here's a breakdown:
Unfortunately, there isn't a comprehensive database that maps Hanson's serial numbers to specific production dates or model information.
Valuing and Authenticating Hanson's Saxophones
If you're looking to buy or sell a Hanson's saxophone, it's essential to work with a reputable dealer or appraiser who is familiar with these instruments. Factors that affect the value of a Hanson's saxophone include its condition, rarity, model, and provenance.
When authenticating a Hanson's saxophone, look for:
Keep in mind that Hanson's saxophones can be highly collectible, and their values can fluctuate depending on market conditions.
If you have a specific Hanson's saxophone and would like more information, I recommend consulting with a saxophone expert or collector community. hanson saxophone serial numbers
Identifying the specific manufacture date of a Hanson saxophone
via serial number is distinct from legacy brands like Selmer or Conn because Hanson does not publicly publish a comprehensive chronological serial number chart. Instead, they typically use alphanumeric prefixes to denote specific model series. How to Identify Your Hanson Saxophone
To determine the age or specific model of your instrument, use the following methods: Prefix Identification
: Hanson often includes a model-specific prefix in the serial number. For example, some owners have reported serial numbers starting with (e.g., HT90001) for specific series. Direct Verification
: Because official records are maintained internally by the company, the most reliable method for a full history is to contact Hanson Musical Instruments directly. Experienced users recommend
rather than emailing for a faster response regarding model and year verification. Location of Serial Number
: On most Hanson saxophones, you can find the unique serial number engraved on the back of the body tube
, typically near the thumb rest or toward the bottom of the straight section. Common Hanson Models
Knowing your model name can help narrow down the production era even without a chart: : Often considered their flagship "pro" series. LX / LX Custom : High-end models known for specific custom finishes. : A popular student-to-intermediate model. Series 5 / Series 8
: Standard production tiers often differentiated by material and keywork.
For verification of a potentially stolen instrument, you can check the serial number against databases like the Stolen Saxophone Register if you are buying secondhand. Taming The Saxophone contact information for Hanson's workshop to verify a specific number? HANSON HT Saxophone | CafeSaxophone Forum
Unlike major historic brands like Selmer or Conn, Hanson Musical Instruments does not publicly publish a chronological serial number chart. Because they are a boutique British maker that began producing saxophones in 2003, their production runs are significantly smaller and often involve bespoke or limited-edition models. Key Identification Details
Since a master list is unavailable, you can identify the age and "tier" of a Hanson saxophone by its model markings and specific production milestones:
Manufacturing Era: Hanson was founded in 1989 but did not start making saxophones until 2003. Any Hanson saxophone will date between 2003 and the present. Model Series (Hierarchy of Quality):
Series V: Entry to intermediate level, designed to take players from grade 1 to post-grade 8.
Series VIII (formerly "8"): Their best-selling professional line for over a decade.
LX / LX Custom: Hand-built in Marsden, West Yorkshire; these are high-end professional horns designed to rival vintage Selmer Mark VI tonality. For the discerning saxophonist, the name Hanson carries
ICON: Bespoke, limited-edition instruments celebrating British design.
Evolution of Builds: Earlier models from around 2015-2020 are noted by players to have thicker walls and heavier construction compared to the newer, more resonant "thin wall" designs. How to Verify Your Specific Serial Number
If you need an exact manufacturing date or to verify authenticity, you must contact the maker directly. They maintain internal records for their bespoke builds: Company: Hanson Musical Instruments Location: Marsden, West Yorkshire, England
Contact for Records: Use the Hanson Contact Page or their official service department to inquire about a specific serial number.
If you can tell me the serial number or model name (like "Series VIII" or "LX") stamped on your horn, I can help you identify its likely features and market position. Saxophones - Hanson alto saxes | CafeSaxophone Forum
Hanson saxophones are high-quality, professional instruments built in Yorkshire, UK, with many models featuring a blend of German-originated bodies and UK-manufactured keywork
. Due to their nature as a modern, specialized manufacturer (often with direct-to-consumer sales), they do not have a public, database-driven serial number chart like vintage brands (e.g., Conn or Selmer). Stephen Howard Woodwind Where to Find Hanson Serial Numbers
Serial numbers on Hanson saxophones are typically engraved on the back of the body tube, often near the right thumb holder or on the bottom of the straight body section.
Serial numbers often include a prefix identifying the model type, such as "HA5" for a Series V (alto) or "HA8" for a Series VIII. Documentation:
As a UK manufacturer, Hanson provides a "buy-back" policy and free servicing, meaning they maintain internal records. How to Identify Your Hanson Saxophone Often labeled with "HA5" prefixes. Series VIII: Labeled with "HA8" prefixes. LX Series:
Alastair Hanson's "tribute" line, modeled after 1955-1958 Selmer Mark VI designs. Student/Intermediate:
While high-end models are fully built in the UK, some student/intermediate Hanson models utilize parts from China before being assembled in the UK. Obtaining Specific Age Information
To find the exact manufacturing year of a Hanson saxophone, it is recommended to contact Hanson Musical Instruments
directly with the serial number, as they keep records for their UK-assembled instruments. Stephen Howard Woodwind
Untangling Saxophone Serial Numbers (Complete Guide) - Jazzfuel
Hanson Saxophones, a family-owned British firm established in 1989, does not publish a standardized serial number dating chart in the same manner as historic giants like Selmer or Conn
. Instead, dating a Hanson instrument often requires looking at the specific evolution of their model series or contacting the workshop directly. Understanding Hanson Serial Identification Keep in mind that these are approximate ranges,
Unlike mass-produced vintage horns where serial numbers were strictly sequential across decades, Hanson numbers serve more as internal production trackers.
: As with most modern saxophones, the serial and model numbers are typically engraved on the back of the instrument, near the bottom of the straight body section or under the right thumb hook. Dating Method
: Because Hanson is a contemporary "boutique" manufacturer, there is no public database to cross-reference a number with a specific year. The most accurate way to date a Hanson is to contact Hanson Musical Instruments directly with your serial number. Model Eras as Chronological Guides
Since serial charts are unavailable, owners can estimate the age of their instrument by its model series and specific manufacturing milestones: The Early Years (1989–2000s)
: Founded by Alastair Hanson, early instruments were hand-built in Marsden, West Yorkshire. Instruments from this era are relatively rare and often feature body tubes sourced from European partners before assembly in the UK. Series V (Post-2003) Hanson Series V
was introduced around 2003 and has since become a staple for students and advancing players. If your serial number is associated with a Series V, it was likely produced after 2003. The "British-Made" Era (Last 10-15 Years)
: Hanson gained significant recognition for being the only company to manufacture complete saxophones in Great Britain for nearly a century.
: Introduced as a "True Vintage" alternative, often compared to the Selmer Mark VI in feel but with modern reliability. Series VIII
: Their long-standing "affordable professional" best-seller of the last decade. Icon and Custom
: These represent the most recent, high-end bespoke production lines. Manufacturing Signatures
You can also identify the "generation" of a Hanson saxophone by its technical specifications: Untangling Saxophone Serial Numbers (Complete Guide)
Unlike major manufacturers like Selmer or Yamaha, Hanson Saxophones
does not publicly publish a chronological serial number chart. Hanson is a boutique British maker based in Marsden, West Yorkshire
, and they often use serial numbers to track individual builds and warranty records rather than as a public dating tool. hansonsaxophones.com How to Identify and Date Your Hanson Saxophone
To get the most accurate information regarding your specific instrument, you should contact Hanson Musical Instruments directly. They maintain internal records for their 5-year warranty and servicing programs , which are linked to the serial number. hansonsaxophones.com Custom - Hanson Saxophones
Hanson saxophones are a niche/entry-level brand whose instruments were primarily produced for student and budget markets. Serial numbers on Hanson saxophones are the main way to date and identify individual instruments, but there is no single comprehensive manufacturer-published registry. Instead, information about Hanson serials is assembled from dealer records, catalogs, import data, and community reports. This feature compiles what is known, how to interpret serials, common variants, and practical steps for owners and buyers to research a specific Hanson saxophone.