Understanding Hanson saxophone serial numbers is key to dating, valuing, and identifying these boutique British instruments. Because Hanson is a smaller, family-run company rather than a mass-production giant, their serial number system is generally more intimate, often focusing on production year rather than astronomical production counts. Hanson Saxophone Manufacturing History (1989-Present)
To better understand where your serial number fits into the Hanson timeline, it helps to identify the specific model line: The Student and Intermediate Era (LX and SA8)
Hanson serial numbers are less about "cracking a code" and more about verifying the evolution of their modern British designs. Where to Find the Serial Number
However, be aware of :
One of the most interesting chapters in the Hanson story involves their manufacturing process. For a period, Hanson sourced high-quality components from overseas but performed all the "critical" work—leveling tone holes, fitting keys, and final padding—in their UK workshop.
In 2011, they produced the world's first FSC-certified woodwind instruments.
Just above the bell-to-body brace or near the thumb hook, the serial number is usually engraved or stamped, often accompanied by the "Made in England" mark. The Bell: Sometimes found near the engraving on the bell. hanson saxophone serial numbers
: These are more recent, bespoke models (post-2010s) with meticulous, lower-volume, high-end serial numbering. How to Get Accurate Information
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
The serial number is often accompanied by the "Hanson" logo and, on later models, "Made in England". Dating Hanson Saxophones: A Guide to Serial Numbers Understanding Hanson saxophone serial numbers is key to
On a Hanson saxophone, the serial number is typically , 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
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:
While a definitive serial-to-year chart is not public, you can estimate your instrument's age based on the production era of its model: Hanson LX (60) tenor sax review - Stephen Howard Woodwind Where to Find the Serial Number However, be
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
rather than emailing for a faster response regarding model and year verification. Location of Serial Number