How can I tell how old my harmonica is?

Generally, harmonicas that have 2 tabs on the right side and 2 on the left side of each cover are older harps (circa late 1880s through about 1937), than the harmonica covers with one tab on the right and one on the left. Also, the shape of the single tabs on the covers is also important for dating.

How do I identify a Hohner harmonica?

Hohner used various trademarks over the years, but a particularly common one was a circle being held by two hands. Look in the middle of the circle – if there is a star inside it, then it is probable that it was made prior to WWII. Here is an example: Later versions of that trademark omit the star.

Is the harmonica 5000 years old?

The harmonica is based on an ancient instrument, the sheng. A Chinese gourd and reed instrument, the sheng may have been invented as long as 5000 years ago by Chinese Empress Nyu-kwa. Instruments resembling the modern harmonica had their genesis in the early 19th century.

How long do Hohner harmonicas last?

With steady playing, a harmonica should go at least 6 months before a reed goes bad. Modern harmonicas seem to last much longer than the older ones. The next step is a harmonica repair kit.

Can I soak a harmonica?

Should I soak my harmonica? Hohner does not recommend soaking your harmonica. Dipping most wooden bodied harps in water makes them louder for a short time, but will cause the comb to swell and can easily make the instrument completely unplayable.

Which harmonica should I buy?

The Best Harmonicas for Beginners, According to Harmonicists

Hohner Special 20 Harmonica Bundle, Major C. $48.
Lee Oskar Harmonica, Key of C, Major Diatonic. $44.
Hohner Marine Band Harmonica, Key of C.
Hohner Golden Melody Harmonica, Key of C.
SEYDEL Blues Classic 1847 Harmonica C.
Hohner Super Chromonica Deluxe, Key of C.

Should I soak my harmonica?

Which is the most popular model of Hohner harmonica?

The Marine Band has been Hohner’s most popular model of harmonica for generations. Made in Germany on a wood comb, most blues and rock artists play a Marine Band.

When did the Hohner trumpet call harmonica come out?

M. Hohner Trumpet Call Harmonica (1906) “The Marine Band” is the base model of the line. Technically named the Marine Band 1896/20 for the year it was introduced and the twenty reeds it possesses, it has been the basis of a number of Hohner’s harmonicas over the years.

How can you tell how old a Hohner Marine Band is?

These do not give you any indication of the instrument’s age; they are merely the dates various trade awards were given. For example, a brand new Hohner Marine Band that rolled off the production line last week will still feature medals with the dates 1871, 1873, 1876 and 1881.

Which is better an old Hohner or a new Hohner?

There is a commonly held belief (not completely without basis in fact) that Hohner harmonicas made before WWII are better than more recent ones. If you have a very good condition old Hohner Marine Band, or 64 Chromonica, then there couldbe a player prepared to pay a reasonable price for it.

How can I tell how old my harmonica is? Generally, harmonicas that have 2 tabs on the right side and 2 on the left side of each cover are older harps (circa late 1880s through about 1937), than the harmonica covers with one tab on the right and one on the left. Also, the shape…