This King 3B Silversonic with F-attachment from the late 1960s is preserved here as an archival reference for players, collectors, and researchers of the classic H.N. White-era King line.
It was one of the finest, most original examples of its kind that we have handled in recent years.
The horn featured the iconic sterling-silver bell with gold-wash interior, the factory-installed F-attachment, and a .508-inch bore nickel-silver hand-slide.
Collectors value this period because it reflects the last years of true H.N. White-era craftsmanship before production changes of the 1970s.
The closet-kept condition was extraordinary.
The original lacquer and silver plating were intact, showing only the slightest handling marks, with no redone work or repairs.
The slide and rotor action were smooth and precise, and the instrument played with the colorful, resonant King tone that made the Silversonic famous — lively yet warm, equally at home in lead-jazz, commercial, or solo contexts.
Accessories included the original King hard case in near-mint condition, a rare King-branded 1960s canvas outer cover, the original King mouthpiece, and period sales literature and paperwork — details that further underline the collectible value of this instrument.
Vintage King 3B Silversonics with factory F-attachments in such well-preserved, all-original shape seldom appear on the market.
This page remains published to document an outstanding specimen and to assist players and collectors researching the history and characteristics of these legendary trombones.
What is the King 3B Silversonic?
The King 3B Silversonic is one of the most iconic jazz and commercial tenor trombones produced by the H.N. White Company.
Introduced in the 1950s, it features a sterling-silver bell with gold-wash interior and a .508-inch bore, prized for its brilliant yet warm tone and lively response.
When were factory F-attachment models introduced?
King began offering the F-attachment option for the 3B Silversonic in the early 1960s.
Adding the rotary valve extended the range and made the instrument more versatile for symphonic, pit, and commercial players, while retaining the signature 3B sound.
Why do players and collectors seek late-1960s examples?
Horns from the late 1960s represent the last years of true H.N. White-era production before major corporate changes in the 1970s.
These instruments are renowned for their craftsmanship, balance, and consistent quality, and well-preserved original examples like this one are increasingly scarce.
What makes the sterling-silver bell special?
The sterling-silver bell is known for producing a brilliant yet colorful tone with excellent projection.
Many players feel it delivers a more vibrant, complex sound than yellow-brass bells, particularly valued in lead-jazz and soloistic commercial settings.
Where can I explore more vintage King instruments?
🔎 Browse the Archive of Sold instruments to see more historical King models, including other Silversonics from different eras.
This late-1960s King 3B Silversonic with F-Attachment has been sold and now appears here as a historical reference for collectors and enthusiasts.
🔎 Browse our current trombone listings to see what’s available today.
