This is a common inquiry for owners of , 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.
Hanson saxophones are high-quality, professional instruments built in Yorkshire, UK, with many models featuring a blend of German-originated bodies and UK-manufactured keywork hanson saxophone serial numbers
: Users on enthusiast forums have noted various serial formats, such as "HT" followed by a five-digit number (e.g., This is a common inquiry for owners of
If you own a Hanson—whether it’s a prestigious , a Series 6 , or a student LX series —decoding the serial number is the key to understanding your instrument’s age, production run, and potential value. | Approximate Year | Serial Number Range |
| Approximate Year | Serial Number Range | Notable Models Produced | Key Features of the Era | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | 1 – 150 | Original "Trevor Hanson" Custom | Hand-engraved bell, no model stamp, very narrow bore. | | 1986-1991 | 151 – 400 | Series V, Series VI | Round neck receiver, wire side key guards. | | 1992-1998 | 401 – 850 | Series VIII, 'The Hanson' (Student) | Transition to detachable bell keys. | | 1999-2002 | 851 – 1,400 | ST8 (First gen) | First "modern" professional horn. Raised tone holes. | | 2003-2006 | 1,401 – 2,800 | LX Series (Alto/Tenor) | Dark lacquer, blue steel springs, metal resonators. | | 2007-2009 | 2,801 – 4,500 | SA Series (Student Alto) | Affordable, durable, engraved "Hanson SA." | | 2010-2013 | 4,501 – 7,200 | SE Series, The Graduate | "SE" = Student Enhanced. Improved keywork. | | 2014-2016 | 7,201 – 9,900 | LX Anniversary | Engraved bell, pre-war style neck. | | 2017-2019 | 9,901 – 12,400 | RA Series (Revolution/Academy) | Porous black nickel keys (RA Noir). | | 2020-2022 | 12,401 – 15,700 | TA Series (Touring Artist) | Detachable bell, gold brass body, modern stack heights. | | 2023-Present | 15,701 – 20,000+ | Signature Series, Studio Models | 3D printed ergonomic touches, eco-friendly cases. |
On a Hanson saxophone, the serial number is typically engraved in the standard industry location: on the , near the bottom and just below the right-hand thumb hook.
While detailed information on Hanson saxophone serial numbers may be elusive, a combination of physical inspection, community engagement, and direct outreach can help you uncover the history and value of your instrument. Whether you're a musician, collector, or enthusiast, understanding your Hanson saxophone's background can enhance your appreciation and connection to this piece of musical history.