Among the most elegant and elusive saxophones of the American golden age, the Conn New Wonder C soprano occupies a fascinating space between musical instrument, historical artifact, and luxury object. Produced during the great flowering of early American saxophone making, these straight C sopranos were never common to begin with, and truly exceptional survivors have become increasingly difficult to locate. Offered here is a particularly distinguished example – a circa 1924 C.G. Conn New Wonder C soprano, serial number 126728, finished in what appears to be its original silver plate, and preserved in a state of condition that is genuinely uncommon.

At first glance, the appeal is immediate. The horn retains its full silver finish, beautifully presenting the refined visual language that made Conn one of the most admired makers of the era. The body displays a soft, luminous satin character set against bright silver keywork and finely cut engraving, giving the instrument a presence that is at once understated and unmistakably luxurious. Unlike so many surviving early sopranos that show the scars of hard use, over-polishing, or long-ago repair, this example remains refreshingly intact. It shows no dents, no noticeable scratches, and no evidence of prior repair work, allowing the original craftsmanship to speak clearly and without distraction.

Just as importantly, this is not merely a decorative survivor. It remains a viable and compelling musical instrument in its own right. The horn is fitted with lightly used pads that are sealing well, offering the next owner a rare opportunity to acquire a C soprano that can be appreciated both as a collector’s piece and as a genuinely-usable player. Conn’s early straight sopranos possess a voice unlike anything made today – focused, vivid, and deeply characterful, with a concentrated tonal center and a distinctive old-world sweetness that rewards a thoughtful player. In the right hands, they are charming, expressive, and unexpectedly versatile.

The horn is further elevated by the inclusion of its original case, itself a rarity and an important part of the instrument’s historical completeness. Also included is a custom Morgan C soprano mouthpiece, a particularly desirable pairing that makes this a complete and practical offering. Rather than leaving the next owner to navigate the often difficult search for an appropriate modern setup, this instrument arrives with a mouthpiece specifically suited to the unique demands of a vintage C soprano – enhancing both usability and appeal for the serious player-collector.

It is rare to encounter an example that balances so many desirable attributes at once: low pitch, strong originality, full silver plate, excellent cosmetics, honest mechanical readiness, and complete presentation. For the discerning collector, this is the sort of instrument that stands apart. It is not simply an unusual saxophone – it is a beautifully preserved surviving expression of Conn’s early artistry and ambition, from a period when American saxophone design still carried a certain sense of ornament, confidence, and romance. Whether acquired as a centerpiece for a serious collection, a specialty recording instrument, or an heirloom-quality addition to a vintage woodwind stable, this is an exceptionally appealing and increasingly scarce example.

Highlights

• Rare 1924 C.G. Conn New Wonder straight C soprano saxophone
• Low pitch example suitable for modern use
• Original silver plate appears 100% intact
• Elegant satin silver body with bright silver keywork
• Crisp engraving and superb visual presentation
• No dents, no noticeable scratches, no evidence of repair
• Pads lightly used and sealing well
• Includes original case
• Includes custom Morgan C soprano mouthpiece (gently used)
• A highly attractive candidate for both collector and player ownership

Condition

Collector-grade vintage condition. Original silver finish appears fully intact and exceptionally well preserved. The horn shows no dents, no noticeable scratches, and no visible evidence of prior repair work. Pads are lightly used and sealing well. Includes original case and custom Morgan C soprano mouthpiece.