A truly extraordinary early American bass saxophone, this Frank Holton silver-plated bass saxophone appears, based on its Pat. No. 1,119,954 stamp, serial format, and construction, to be a Conn-built example produced circa 1915-1917. That places it among the earliest surviving low-pitch American bass saxophones built for practical ensemble use, and firmly within the formative years of large-format saxophone production in the United States.

Visually, this horn is stunning. The original silver plate remains 100% intact, with no wear spots, no buffing loss, and no visible silver loss, a remarkable level of preservation for any early saxophone and especially rare on a bass. Structurally, it is equally impressive: no soldering, no evidence of major past repair, and a body that presents in unusually clean, mint condition. In a category where many surviving examples have endured decades of hard use, repair, and compromised originality, this instrument stands out immediately.

Just as importantly, this is not simply a showpiece. It is low pitch (A=440) and fully usable in modern playing situations, with fresh cork and good used pads that are sealing well. In hand, the horn is surprisingly friendly. While it retains the visual charm and mechanical character of older keywork, the ergonomics are notably comfortable and intuitive, making it easier to play than many players would expect from a bass saxophone of this era. It is also lighter then you’d expect; while taller than many modern examples, it feels about 20% lighter in the hand.

Tonally, this is exactly the kind of voice serious bass saxophone buyers hope to find. The horn produces a huge, powerful, dark sound, with immense breadth, authority, and room-filling resonance. There is a satisfying weight to the tone – broad and commanding without becoming dull – and it delivers the kind of vintage presence that makes a great bass saxophone feel less like a novelty and more like a true musical force.

Examples like this are increasingly difficult to find: low pitch, Conn-built, structurally clean, visually preserved, and immediately playable. For the collector, studio, institution, or adventurous player seeking a serious vintage bass saxophone, this is a remarkable opportunity to acquire an instrument with both historic importance and real musical substance.

Why We Love It

• Rare Frank Holton-branded bass saxophone
• Conn-built / Conn-associated example
• Circa 1915-1917
• Pat. No. 1,119,954
• 100% intact original silver plate
• Structurally mint – no soldering, no major past repair
• Low pitch (A=440) – fully usable today
• Fresh cork + good sealing pads
• Huge, powerful, dark tone
• Surprisingly comfortable and approachable playing feel

Condition

This bass saxophone presents in exceptionally clean vintage condition.

• Finish: Original silver plate appears 100% intact
• Body: Structurally excellent with no soldering and no evident major repair history
• Pads: Used but in good playing condition, sealing well
• Setup: Fresh cork and playing well as-is
• Pitch: Low Pitch

Playability & Sound

This horn has the kind of sound buyers are hoping for when they search for a true vintage bass saxophone:

• Huge sound
• Dark tonal core
• Powerful low-end presence
• Broad, resonant projection
• Strong and satisfying vintage character

It speaks with authority, but remains surprisingly manageable under the fingers. Despite its early construction and period keywork, the horn feels remarkably approachable, with an ease of response and ergonomic comfort that makes it much more inviting than many bass saxophones of comparable age.