Early Vintage 1917 Buescher True Tone Silver Baritone Saxophone, Serial #34898
Early Vintage Buescher True Tone
This is a very early Buescher True Tone baritone saxophone, serial number 34898. While it is not the oldest one we have had in our shop it should be noted the ones from before 1920 do not come around much. The construction on these saxophones showcases soldered tone hole construction as these were made before the introduction of drawing tone holes. All of the key guards and key work is intact on this particular instrument as well as the original neck.
The baritone does have a history of dent and solder work. There are currently quite a few dings and smaller pushed in areas across the horn. But considering the horn was manufactured in 1917 its doing pretty good. Judging by the age of the pads currently on the sax I would guess it has been 50 plus years since it was being regularly used. You can also see some trace of a heavy glue used to do an on the spot repair of a leaking tone hole.
If you wanted to spend the time and money this sax could be brought back to playing condition. It would require a pretty thorough overhaul with attention to all of the tone holes and body work. But because of its age it is not super advisable for use in today's ensembles even after restoration.
Ships in as is condition with vintage wood hard case and original neck. Because of the vintage of this instrument it is most ideal as a collectors item for the serious American saxophone collector and enthusiast.