Expert: Kenton Scott - 3/18/2006

Question
I was wondering the value of this Holton saxaphone I found in a recent cleaning of our shop. I know that it is brass the keys are pearl. The markings and numbers are as follows:

                       C
                     16035   
                       LP
This is located on the back of the bell, imprinted.
Something odd, it is in a C. G. Conn case, the case has all of the Conn labels.  

Answer
Well you have an old saxophone!  It was made in 1912.  And, it is made so that it will play in tune with modern instruments, which adds to its desirablity.  

Woodwinds really aren't my area, but I suspect that the C may possibly mean that it is  a C melody sax.  That would also make it more valuable than the more common alto or tenor saxes.  

It is not unusual for instruments to end up in a case that was not original to the horn.  Cases will wear out inconsistent with the horn wearing out.

There are a number of things that can effect the value of an instrument, but this horn has a couple of things going for it.  It MAY be a C Melody, it is low pitch, and Holton is a respected brand.

You may want to take a look at the sale prices for completed auctions on eBay to get an idea of its value.

kms