Hanson Saxophone Serial Numbers -

Understanding Hanson Saxophone Serial Numbers

Hanson Musical Instruments, often associated with the brand Jupiter, has produced a wide range of instruments, including saxophones. The serial numbering system can provide valuable information about the instrument, such as its production date and model.

Case Study 3: HST8 0017

• Model: HST8 (Hanson Tenor model 8 – very rare)
• Number: 0017
• Likely Year: 1990 (early production)
• Value Context: Extremely collectible. One of the first tenors made. Could fetch £2,500+ if in original condition.

Why the Serial Number Matters for the Owner

Because Hanson saxophones are modern, the serial number serves two primary practical purposes:

1. 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.
2. 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 Ultimate Guide to Hanson Saxophone Serial Numbers: Dating, Identifying, and Valuing Your Horn

For saxophonists seeking a professional-grade instrument without the stratospheric price tag of a vintage Selmer or Yamaha, the Hanson Saxophone brand has become a revered name. Founded in the heart of England, Hanson has carved out a niche by producing high-quality, hand-assembled saxophones that rival their continental competitors.

However, because Hanson is a smaller, specialized manufacturer (compared to mass-production giants), information about their serial numbers can be notoriously difficult to find. Unlike Selmer or Conn, there is no single, government-published ledger for Hanson serials.

If you own a Hanson—whether it’s a prestigious SA-5, a Series 6, or a student LX series—decoding the serial number is the key to understanding your instrument’s age, production run, and potential value. hanson saxophone serial numbers

In this guide, we will explore how to read Hanson serial numbers, the history behind the numbering systems, how to date your saxophone, and why this matters for collectors and players.

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) | Model: HST8 (Hanson Tenor model 8 – very

Note: These ranges are approximations. Hanson produces roughly 500–800 saxophones per year, so the progression is steady.

What Serial Numbers Do NOT Tell You

Unlike some vintage American horns, Hanson serial numbers do not indicate:

• Specific model (e.g., ST vs LX vs AE) – You must identify that visually.
• Factory of origin – All are assembled in Manchester, UK.
• Finish type (lacquer, unlacquered, silver, gold plate) – This is separate from the serial.

Case Studies: What Real Serial Numbers Mean

Let's look at three hypothetical examples to illustrate how this works in practice.

Example 1: Serial # 287

• Location: Inside the bell only.
• Condition: No high F# key, wire keyguards.
• Verdict: This is a 1988 Hanson Series V. It is worth more than modern horns because Trevor built it personally. However, the ergonomics are dated (similar to a Conn 10M).

Example 2: Serial # 5,980

• Location: Below thumb hook + inside bell.
• Condition: High F# key, adjustable thumbrest, "LX" engraved on bow.
• Verdict: This is a 2012 LX (Luxury) series. The serial number falls exactly in the 2010-2013 bracket. This is a high-end intermediate/pro horn.

Example 3: Serial # 16,200

• Location: Laser etched (not stamped) on back of body.
• Condition: Black nickel keys, "RA Noir" on bell.
• Verdict: This is a 2024 RA Series. Due to the laser etching, you know it is a modern, Chinese-manufactured body that was finished and voiced in England.

Era 1: The Workshop Years (Pre-2000)

In the early days, Hanson produced primarily custom and "Series" horns. Serial numbers from this era are often low digits (1 to ~800). If you have a 3-digit serial number, you own a piece of British saxophone history. These were hand-lapped and hand-finished by Trevor himself.