Usually identifiable by the "LX" prefix or specific engraving styles. These represent the "high-performance" line.
On all Hanson saxophones, the serial number is near the bottom of the instrument. Specifically:
Before looking at serial numbers, it's helpful to understand the company that created these instruments. Hanson Music & Arts, often referred to as Hanson Musical Instruments, is a family-owned British company based in Marsden, West Yorkshire, England. It was founded in 1989 by Alastair Hanson after he graduated from Leeds College of Music and with support from The Prince's Trust.
During this period, Hanson introduced highly acclaimed models like the and the Hanson Evolution . This era marked a significant shift toward using British-sourced materials, lead-free soldering, and acoustically pure alloys. Serial numbers from this timeframe often feature the model prefix (e.g., "LX") followed by a three- or four-digit sequential number. The Modern and Eco-Friendly Era (2020s – Present) hanson saxophone serial numbers
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)
: Typically feature straightforward letter-number combinations. The Nouvelle and Evolution Era
: High-end custom builds or professional models often feature a distinctive prefix or a clean, sequential numerical system detached from standard production lines. 2. Sequential Numbers Usually identifiable by the "LX" prefix or specific
Because Hanson is a modern company that has maintained consistent, quality-controlled production, their serial numbers offer something rare: . You can email the maker with a number from 2004 and receive an answer within days. This stands in stark contrast to vintage horns where serial lists are fragmented or lost.
: Serial numbers are typically found on the back of the instrument, near the thumb rest or on the bottom of the straight body section.
) is typically engraved prominently on the bell. The serial number is specific to the individual instrument. Specifically: Before looking at serial numbers, it's helpful
: Introduced as a "True Vintage" alternative, often compared to the Selmer Mark VI in feel but with modern reliability. Series VIII
Hanson saxophones generally feature their serial number stamped on the back of the body tube, usually near the serial number plate or directly on the metal, often below the thumb rest.