Hammerschmidt Stencil Alto On eBay

Over the past few months I have really noticed an abundance of Hammerschmidt stencil horns on eBay. They all have something in common: they are stencilled with the name Silvertone.

Silvertone was the brand sold by Sears Roebuck during the first half of the 20th century. Usually the horns were made by American saxophone makers like Buescher or Martin. I have however, noticed a number of Hammerschmidt saxophones, and even a couple of J. Keilwerth horns that carry the Silvertone name.

This morning on eBay, I again saw a Silvertone alto that was made by Hammerschmidt. Compared to some, it appears to be in decent-enough shape.

     Source: coinsantiques.22

Here’s how the seller describes this vintage, German-made alto:

Vintage Silvertone Alto Saxophone with Case

This Auction is for a Vintage Silvertone Alto Saxophone with Case. Everything shown in the pictures are included in this auction. It’s unknown if this item has all of it’s original accessories or parts. Item is Untested. We are not musical instrument experts, so we take as many closeup shots for buyers/collectors to see any blemishes, body issues, chips or cracks. Item overall is in Moderate condition. Item shows normal signs of wear including dust, dings, and scratches, some deeper than others (see photos). Cosmetic scratches on entire instrument, but nothing that should effect playability. Tarnish on enitre instrument that may need cleaned. Some small dents in the bow, but nothing that should effect playability. All keys rebound when depressed. Keys show signs of tarnish that may need to be cleaned. Pads show normal signs of wear and can be replaced at owners discression. Neck shows normal signs of wear and scratching, cork shows wear, but is holding up well. Case shows normals signs of wear but latches fully. Overall, this would be a good beginner saxophone.

I read this ad to mean: horn needs an overhaul. The photos bear this supposition out…

  Source: coinsantiques.22

This sax has the typical features found on Hammerschmidts, including rolled tone holes and a G# trill key. Like all the Hammerschmidt-made Silvertone saxes that I’ve seen to date, this horn has sheet metal key guards, rather than acrylic ones.

If you’re interested in picking up this vintage, German alto sax, you only have another day to do so. The auction for this Hammerschmidt-stencilled Silvertone, ends on October 26. At the time of writing there were 4 bids on this vintage horn. The high bid was $16. 05. 😯

If you would like to read more about the company that made this sax, be sure to check out the Hammerschmidt page, on the main portion of my site.