This Bach Mercedes trombone was built in Mt. Vernon, New York, during the mid-1950s — a true example of vintage Bach craftsmanship. The model is very similar to the Bach 12, featuring a 7" bell and a .500 bore handslide.
Remarkably, this instrument showed no signs of previous damage or repairs and remained in outstanding condition at the time of sale. The slide was in very good condition, providing smooth action and excellent responsiveness.
Thanks to its lightweight design and focused sound, this model is particularly well-suited for lead and jazz players who prefer a .500 bore setup.
This example included a new Protec Silver Series lightweight case, offering modern protection for this vintage horn.
What is the history of the Bach Mercedes trombone line?
The Bach Mercedes line was introduced in the early 1950s as an affordable alternative to the top-level Stradivarius series. While not considered full professional models, Mercedes trombones were still built using many of the same high-quality parts — including bells and slides — which gave them similar tonal characteristics.
These instruments were designed for advancing students, dedicated amateurs, and semi-professional players seeking reliable Bach performance at a lower price point. Production continued into the 1970s before the line was eventually discontinued, making Mt. Vernon-era examples especially desirable among collectors and players today.
This listing is part of our Archive of Sold Instruments and serves as a reference for musicians and collectors interested in vintage Bach trombones.