As Hanson moved into high-end manufacturing, the serial numbers became more distinct.
What is the or any letter prefixes engraved on the saxophone?
If your serial number is 1,200 and the horn looks like a Selmer Mark VI clone, it is authentic. If it looks like a Yanagisawa 901, it is also authentic. Do not panic—check the stamp on the bell. It should say "Hanson, Marsden."
Letters often denote the specific model line (e.g., "EX" for Excellence, "PO" for Pro One, or "LX" for the LX series). hanson saxophone serial numbers
Your saxophone’s serial number is its fingerprint. For Hanson models, this number is typically found stamped on the back of the instrument's body tube, just below the thumb rest.
For the discerning saxophonist, the name 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.
This means that if you own a Hanson saxophone, you can't simply look up a chart to find its production year. However, this does not mean the serial number is useless. A serial number can still provide valuable information about your instrument, which is explored in the following sections. As Hanson moved into high-end manufacturing, the serial
Your saxophone isn't just an instrument; it's a piece of the workshop in Marsden. Respect the number.
The current lineup includes the LX Custom series and various professional models hand-finished in Marsden. Identifying Hanson Serial Numbers
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 If it looks like a Yanagisawa 901, it is also authentic
Unlike mass-produced Japanese horns, each Hanson has a personality. Because the Hanson family still answers their emails personally, you have the rare privilege of actually asking the builder about your specific horn.
: Carefully inspect your saxophone for any markings, logos, or signatures that could indicate its model, production date, or authenticity.