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Offered here is a 1924 Martin Handcraft Low Pitch saxophone, serial number 45482, made in Elkhart, Indiana during Martin’s highly regarded Handcraft era. Based on the serial number, this instrument dates to 1924, one of the company’s early professional production years. Martin Handcraft saxophones from this period are well known for their rich, warm tone, excellent build quality, and hand-fitted construction, and they continue to be sought after by players and collectors alike. This instrument is marked Low Pitch (LP), meaning it was built to the modern concert pitch standard rather than the obsolete High Pitch specification, making it the more desirable version for musicians and collectors. Adding to its craftsmanship, the finger touches are fitted with genuine mother-of-pearl key inlays, a hallmark of quality saxophones from this era that provides both durability and a classic appearance.
This saxophone has not been played in many years and is being sold as an unrestored vintage instrument. While I have not attempted to play-test it, every key and valve actuates smoothly by hand, and all of the springs return properly as they should, indicating that the mechanism is functioning mechanically. As with virtually any century-old instrument that has been sitting, it should be expected that the pads, corks, felts, and regulation will need inspection and likely servicing before regular performance use.
Included is what appears to be the original Martin hard case, which is in remarkably good condition for its age. The purple interior remains attractive, and the latches function as they should. The only notable issue is that the original leather carrying handle is broken. Also included are two mouthpieces, two vintage lyre-style sheet music holders, and the original leather neck strap/neck holder, making this a very complete package that retains many of its original accessories.
Cosmetically, the saxophone presents well with the honest wear expected from nearly 100 years of age. It retains a beautiful aged patina with finish wear, oxidation, and handling marks that reflect decades of use without detracting from its vintage character. There is one small dent on the bottom bow, visible in the photos, along with other light cosmetic wear consistent with age. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they are an important part of the description and accurately represent the overall condition.
Whether you’re looking for a quality restoration candidate, a vintage player, or an authentic piece of American musical history, this 1924 Martin Handcraft Low Pitch saxophone is an excellent opportunity. Early Martin Handcraft instruments helped establish the company’s reputation for producing professional-grade saxophones, and complete examples with their original case and accessories are becoming increasingly difficult to find.
