Overview
This Conn 8H, serial number 524150, was made in Elkhart, Indiana, in approximately 1955. This instrument has been sold.
The 8H is the traditional straight version of Conn’s classic large-bore symphonic tenor trombone, featuring an 8½-inch rose brass bell with an unsoldered rim, a .547-inch bore hand slide, and no F attachment.
This example paired a rose brass bell with a yellow brass neck pipe and yellow brass tuning slide. The tuning slide retained its distinctive nickel-silver exterior guard, a feature associated with Conn trombones from the 1950s.
The 8H design preceded the famous Conn 88H, which entered production in 1954 by adding an F attachment to the same basic large-bore concept. The straight 8H remained a popular choice for players who preferred less weight, uncomplicated response, and the full Elkhart Conn sound without additional valve tubing.
Condition
The bell section retained its original factory lacquer. The finish was worn and faded from normal use, with an attractive dark patina beneath the remaining lacquer. There were no significant dents or dings, and the instrument was an honest, well-preserved vintage example.
The hand slide also retained its original lacquer and showed moderate cosmetic wear without pitting. Serial number 524150 was visible on both the cork barrel and outer slide. The inner slide tubes appeared to have been replaced sometime before the instrument arrived at The Brass Exchange. They were in excellent condition, with no visible chrome-plating wear.
The original press-fit leadpipe was intact. The instrument received a complete shop service, including chemical cleaning and professional hand-slide adjustment. Slide action was excellent, with straight tubes, quiet operation, and proper alignment.
Specifications
- Model: Conn 8H
- Serial number: 524150
- Estimated production year: 1955
- Manufactured in: Elkhart, Indiana
- Bell: 8½-inch rose brass with unsoldered rim
- Bore: .547-inch large bore
- Configuration: Straight tenor without F attachment
- Neck pipe: Yellow brass
- Tuning slide: Yellow brass with nickel-silver exterior guard
- Leadpipe: Original press-fit Conn leadpipe
- Finish: Original lacquer with natural wear and patina
- Mouthpiece: None accompanied the sale
- Case: Sold with a black unbranded Cordura-style large-tenor gig bag
Player Perspective
This 8H delivered the classic Elkhart Conn sound: broad, warm, resonant, and easy to center. The response was immediate, the slide positions felt natural, and the instrument produced a full .547-bore sound without the added weight or ergonomic considerations of an F attachment.
Having played and sold dozens of Elkhart 8H trombones over the years, we found this an especially satisfying example. It played as well as the finest 8H instruments we had handled, and its excellent hand slide was a particularly strong feature.
These playing characteristics suited orchestra, concert band, brass quintet, church performances, and solo playing. The straight large-bore design also offers an option for jazz players who appreciate its open response and simplicity.
Downsizing or Selling a Collection?
Are you downsizing a brass instrument collection or looking for assistance with an estate of instruments? The Brass Exchange works with players, collectors, and families to evaluate instruments and discuss options for selling.
Contact us to discuss your instruments, or call directly at 314-616-1434.
Explore More Vintage Trombones
Interested in exploring more historical trombone makers and vintage models? Visit The Brass Exchange archive for photographs, specifications, and playing observations from instruments we have handled over the years.