Overview
This Conn 8H-S tenor trombone, serial number 765826, was manufactured in Elkhart, Indiana in 1958 during one of the most respected periods in Conn's history.
The instrument features Conn's classic 8.5-inch rose brass bell with an unsoldered rim paired with a professional .547 bore handslide. Unlike most 8H and 88H trombones from this period, this example features the much less common factory nickel silver handslide assembly, making it a particularly interesting instrument for both players and collectors.
Built during the years when Conn's legendary 8H and the then-new 88H were being played by many of America's leading trombonists, this instrument represents an important period in the development of the modern orchestral tenor trombone.
This example retained its original lacquer and original factory parts throughout. No evidence of previous major damage or repair was observed. The bell felt noticeably lighter in weight than many straight 8H trombones we have encountered over the years, contributing to a lively response and excellent resonance throughout the instrument's range.
At the time of sale, the instrument had received a complete professional shop service including chemical cleaning, inspection, adjustment, and final setup by The Brass Exchange.
Although this instrument has found a new owner, we maintain this page within The Brass Exchange Historical Archive as a resource for players researching vintage Conn trombones and the professional instruments that have passed through our shop.
Instrument Highlights
- Serial number 765826
- Manufactured in Elkhart, Indiana in 1958
- Rare factory nickel silver handslide assembly
- Original lacquer finish
- Original factory parts throughout
- No evidence of previous major damage or repair
- 8.5-inch rose brass bell with unsoldered rim
- .547-inch professional large bore
- Complete professional shop service performed
- Excellent slide alignment
- Inner slide plating wear present
- Original Conn hard case included
- Mouthpiece not included
Player Perspective
The Conn 8H has long been regarded as one of the finest large bore straight tenor trombones ever produced. Known for its broad sound, efficient response, and unmistakable Conn character, it remains a favorite among orchestral musicians, educators, church musicians, and serious enthusiasts.
This particular example offered an especially appealing combination of features. The lightweight rose brass bell contributed to a lively feel and excellent projection, while the rare factory nickel silver handslide assembly represented a specification seldom encountered on Elkhart-era instruments.
Players seeking a professional large bore tenor without an F attachment continue to appreciate the balance, efficiency, and versatility that the Conn 8H platform provides. Instruments such as this remain equally at home in orchestra, wind ensemble, church performance, chamber music, solo literature, and small ensemble settings.
Historical Notes
Examples of the Conn 8H-S from the Elkhart era are encountered far less frequently than the standard 8H configuration. The combination of a factory nickel silver handslide, original lacquer, and excellent overall condition makes instruments like this especially desirable to players and collectors alike.
This trombone serves as an excellent example of the craftsmanship that established Conn's Elkhart-era reputation and continues to make these instruments sought after today.
Questions Players Often Ask
What is a Conn 8H-S?
The 8H-S is a less common variation of the classic Conn 8H featuring a factory nickel silver handslide assembly rather than the more frequently encountered gold brass slide configuration.
When was this trombone manufactured?
Serial number 765826 dates production to 1958 during Conn's celebrated Elkhart manufacturing period.
Is this a large bore tenor trombone?
Yes. The instrument features a .547 bore handslide and an 8.5-inch rose brass bell, making it a professional large bore straight tenor trombone.
Why is the nickel silver handslide significant?
Factory nickel silver handslides were produced in much smaller numbers than the standard brass slide configuration, making surviving original examples particularly interesting to both performers and collectors.
Looking for a Similar Conn 8H Vintage Elkhart Trombone?
Although this particular instrument has been sold, The Brass Exchange regularly acquires vintage Conn trombones from the Elkhart, Abilene, and later production eras, including both straight and F-attachment models.
Our inventory changes frequently, so we encourage you to browse our current selection or contact us if you're searching for a particular Conn model, production era, or configuration.
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