Buescher True Tone Curved Soprano Saxophone (1913) – Silver Plate – Fully Overhauled

Full price: $3,900.00
Reserve with $500.00 deposit
Balance due before shipment or pickup: $3,400.00

In stock

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This saxophone is receiving a complete overhaul and cleaning to ensure optimal playing and beauty!

Anticipated available date of 8/28/2026 or sooner.

Deposits are non-refundable; includes free domestic shipping to the continental 48 states.

The Buescher True Tone Curved Soprano Saxophone, serial 37597, is an exceptionally early and increasingly scarce example of one of America’s finest vintage soprano saxophones. Manufactured in 1913, this professional model dates to the formative years of the True Tone line, when Buescher was establishing its reputation for precision craftsmanship, superb intonation, and a warm, expressive tonal character that continues to attract discerning players more than a century later.

This example has been professionally overhauled and is presented in outstanding playing condition. The original silver plating retains an estimated 95%+ coverage and has been professionally polished, giving the instrument a brilliant appearance while preserving its vintage character. Finding an early curved soprano with this level of original silver plating is increasingly uncommon, particularly one that has already received a comprehensive professional restoration.

The early True Tone curved sopranos possess a voice all their own. Compared to contemporary Conn curved sopranos, the Buescher offers a slightly warmer and darker tonal palette, with a remarkably rich middle register, smooth upper register, and a focused, singing core that blends beautifully in chamber ensembles while remaining capable of surprising projection. Their refined bore design and meticulous craftsmanship have made them favorites among players seeking an authentic early American soprano sound.

Serial 37597 predates Buescher’s later innovations such as snap-in pads and Norton screw-in springs, representing the company’s original True Tone design philosophy. These early instruments feature elegant hand engraving, drawn tone holes, and beautifully fitted keywork that exemplify the remarkable quality of Buescher’s pre-World War I production. Although their ergonomics reflect the era in which they were built, they remain highly rewarding instruments for players who appreciate vintage craftsmanship and tonal complexity.

Clean, original silver-plated curved sopranos have become increasingly difficult to locate. Many surviving examples have significant plating loss, major repairs, or require complete restoration. With its fresh professional overhaul, excellent cosmetic preservation, and approximately 95%+ original silver plating, serial 37597 represents an exceptional opportunity for both the vintage saxophone collector and the performer seeking one of the most charming and expressive American curved sopranos ever produced.

Specifications

  • Maker: Buescher Band Instrument Company
  • Model: True Tone Curved Soprano
  • Serial Number: 37597
  • Year: 1913
  • Key: Bâ™­
  • Finish: Original silver plate (approximately 95%+ coverage)
  • Condition: Fresh professional overhaul
  • Construction: Drawn tone holes, split bell keys
  • Made in: Elkhart, Indiana, USA

Early Buescher curved sopranos occupy a special place in the vintage saxophone world. Produced in far smaller numbers than altos and tenors, they offer a tonal character that is both elegant and unmistakably American. While later Series IV curved sopranos often command the highest collector prices because of their modernized ergonomics, these early pre-war examples possess a unique charm and musicality that many players actually prefer. A professionally overhauled example with 95%+ original silver plating is a rare find and an outstanding addition to any serious collection or performance stable.

Instrument Demo

Additional information

Brand

Buescher

Condition

Very Fine (4/5)

Finish Color

Silver

Instrument

Soprano Saxophone

Level

Professional

Manufacture Decade

1910

Complimentary Getting-Acquainted Lesson

All saxophone purchases come with a complimentary 15-30 minute lesson with Michael Wilbur, a professional saxophonist, educator, and touring artist, best known as a founding member of Moon Hooch and Thundersmack.

We hope this lesson will help you get acquainted with your new horn!
Learn more about lessons with Michael and book a session.