Overview
This Holton 65 vintage jazz trombone, serial number 184112, was made during the late 1940s in Elkhorn, Wisconsin. Holton small-bore trombones from this period are known for their immediate response, projection, and distinctive musical personality.
This example features:
- 7-inch yellow brass bell
- Classic .485-inch small-bore design
- Custom satin lacquer finish
- Clean, responsive handslide
- Compact blue Cronkhite TSG Cordura case
The custom satin finish gives the instrument a warm, understated appearance while preserving its vintage character. At the time of sale, the trombone was free from dents, dings, patches, or structural issues.
Player Perspective
Compared with modern small-bore trombones from King, Bach, or Yamaha, the Holton 65 offers a distinctly vintage playing experience.
- Bright, lively upper register when pushed
- Immediate articulation suited for lead playing
- Warm middle and lower register for a horn of this size
- Lightweight bell response that supports expressive phrasing
This example plays with the edge, shimmer, and liveliness associated with vintage Holton small-bore trombones. It is especially well suited for jazz ensemble, commercial, traditional jazz, second-line, solo, and small-group playing.
Compared with a King 2B, the Holton 65 can feel slightly warmer and rounder through the middle register, with a looser, more vocal quality and considerable brilliance in the upper register.
Condition Summary
- Model: Holton 65
- Serial Number: 184112
- Production Period: Late 1940s
- Manufacturing Location: Elkhorn, Wisconsin
- Bell: 7-inch yellow brass
- Bore: Approximately .485 inch
- Finish: Custom satin lacquer
- Structural Condition: No dents, dings, patches, or structural issues at the time of sale
- Handslide: Clean, aligned, and responsive
- Case: Blue Cronkhite TSG small-bore Cordura case
This was an exceptionally well-preserved and highly playable example of a late-1940s Holton 65, combining vintage jazz character with a distinctive custom finish.
Archive Status
This Holton 65 vintage jazz trombone has been sold and is now included in the Brass Exchange Archive of Sold Instruments as a reference for musicians researching vintage Holton trombones.
To see the used trombones currently available from The Brass Exchange, browse our current inventory.