Serial Numbers — Hanson Saxophone
In some specialized or bespoke models, such as the British-made Icon series , the serial number may be accompanied by distinctive commemorative engravings or hallmarks of British engineering. Identifying Hanson Models by Era
: The team at Hanson maintains internal workshop ledgers. You can contact them via their official website or phone. Providing them with your serial number and photos of the engravings will usually yield the exact build month and year. hanson saxophone serial numbers
Unlike major vintage manufacturers with public registries, Hanson Saxophones maintains a private serial number database. Because they are a smaller British boutique maker, they do not publish a standardized chart of years versus serial ranges. Locating Your Serial Number In some specialized or bespoke models, such as
| Serial Number Range | Approx. Year | Model(s) | Notes | |-------------------|--------------|----------|-------| | 1000 – 2000 | 1999–2001 | SA-5 (Alto), SA-8 (Tenor) | Early production; keywork based on Selmer-style. | | 2001 – 4000 | 2002–2005 | SA-5, SA-8, Student Alto | Most common range. Stamped "Hanson, England" on back of body. | | 4001 – 6500 | 2006–2009 | SA-5II, SA-8II | Rebranded models with slight keywork updates. | | 6501 – 8500 | 2010–2012 | SA-5III, SA-8III | Final own-branded run. | | 8501 – 9500 | 2013–2014 | Limited stock, some stencils | Some sold via remaining stock after closure. | | 9501+ | 2015+ | Not authentic Hanson | After Hanson woodwind ceased, no new instruments with valid serials. Any high number >10k likely a fake or another brand mislabeled. | Providing them with your serial number and photos
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.
Hand-built in Marsden, West Yorkshire; these are high-end professional horns designed to rival vintage Selmer Mark VI tonality .
In the modern market, a Hanson serial number is primarily used for . Unlike vintage horns where a "five-digit" serial might triple the price, a Hanson's value is driven by its hand-finished quality and model tier (LX vs. SA8) rather than its specific place in the production line. Hanson SA8 alto saxophone review