The serial number is usually stamped in three places (though cheaper student models might only have one):
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.
First, one must locate the number. On a Hanson saxophone, the serial number is not always in the same place as on other brands. The primary location is on the back of the main body, near the thumb rest or slightly above it, stamped directly into the metal. A secondary location—often overlooked—is on the underside of the crook (neck). For consistency and accurate dating, always use the number on the body, as necks can be swapped between instruments over time. The number will be purely numeric (e.g., 1004, 5873) and generally ranges from 1 to the low 10,000s for most modern instruments.
The single most important fact for any Hanson owner is this: Hanson does not currently publish an official, public serial number chronology. Unlike the detailed ledgers of Yamaha or Keilwerth, Hanson’s records have historically been held internally for warranty and production tracking. Consequently, most online “serial number decoders” claiming to date a Hanson are speculative, often conflating them with cheaper stencil horns. To obtain accurate dating, one must contact the manufacturer directly via their website (Hanson Music, based in Marsden, West Yorkshire).
However, through years of owner-reported data, forum discussions (e.g., Sax on the Web, Café Saxophone), and dealer listings, a useful empirical chronology has emerged. While unofficial, this data provides a reliable framework:
Why is this knowledge useful? Beyond satisfying curiosity, a verified serial number serves three practical purposes: hanson saxophone serial numbers
A word of caution: do not trust a seller who claims a Hanson is “vintage 1990s” based solely on a low serial number without cross-referencing. Hanson only began large-scale production in the late 1990s. A “serial number 007” sounds impressive, but if the horn has modern features like a high-F# key and metal resonators, it is not from the 1980s. Always triangulate the serial number with physical features: early models have soldered tone holes and a different octave key mechanism compared to post-2005 instruments.
In conclusion, the Hanson saxophone serial number is less a public database and more a private conversation with the maker. For the practical owner, the process is simple: find the number on the body, compare it to the unofficial chronological ranges above for a rough estimate, and then email Hanson directly for a definitive date. This small act of research transforms a mere instrument into a documented artifact, connecting the player to the craftspeople in West Yorkshire. Whether you are insuring a rare Series I or selling a well-loved SA-5, the serial number is not just a digit—it is the saxophone’s birth certificate. Always respect its story.
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 The serial number is usually stamped in three
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
Understanding Hanson Saxophone Serial Numbers Hanson Musical Instruments, based in Marsden, West Yorkshire, has been producing high-quality woodwind and brass instruments since its founding in 1989. Unlike vintage mass-market brands with centralized public databases, Hanson Saxophones follows a more bespoke manufacturing approach, making serial number identification a more direct process through the maker. Where to Find the Serial Number
On a Hanson saxophone, the serial number is typically engraved on the back of the instrument, near the bottom of the straight body section, often just below the right thumb rest. Because many Hanson saxophones—specifically the LX Custom and Icon series—are hand-built or finished in Britain, these numbers are unique identifiers used for warranty tracking and authenticity. Determining the Age of Your Hanson Saxophone
Hanson does not publish a standardized "year-to-serial" chart like Selmer or Conn. However, you can estimate the age based on the specific model series and its launch date: Series V - Hanson Saxophones
This is a common inquiry for owners of Hanson SA-5, SA-8, or student model saxophones (made by Hanson, England, now discontinued). Hanson did not publish a full public serial number chronology, but the following guide is compiled from collector data, repair logs, and direct correspondence with the original company. Why is this knowledge useful
Important note: Hanson sold saxophones under their own name (typically built in Taiwan/China, assembled/finished in England) and also used serial numbers for warranty records. After Hanson closed its woodwind division (circa 2013–2015), records became fragmented.
The exact method to decode Hanson (or Jupiter) saxophone serial numbers can vary over the years and by model. Generally, the serial number can give you:
Vintage collectors prize sub-500 serial numbers for SA5 models, often fetching £1,500–£2,500. Modern horns (serial 7000+) typically sell for £800–£1,200 used—still excellent value, but not “collector” pricing.
Expected Response Time: Usually 3-5 business days. They can often tell you the exact month of assembly, the original lacquer type, and even the technician who built it.
Pro tip: Be polite and patient. Hanson is a small shop, not a megacorporation. They appreciate owners who value the history of their instruments.
While the serial number tells you when the horn was made, the model designation tells you what it is. Hanson has produced several distinct lines, and the evolution of these models is often more important than the specific year.
Crucial Identification Tip: Look at the neck. Authentic Hanson saxophones often have the model stamped on the neck receiver (e.g., "Hanson" and the model code). Counterfeits or "stencil" horns pretending to be Hansons often have generic necks or mismatched logos.