This King 3B Silversonic, serial number 360XXX, was built in the late 1950s during the H.N. White era in Cleveland, Ohio and is now preserved in our Archive of Sold Instruments as a historical reference for jazz trombone enthusiasts.
The 3B Silversonic is widely regarded as one of the most popular jazz trombone models of all time.
This particular example is also one of the earliest Silversonic 3Bs we have seen, featuring the longer tuning-slide design typical of the first production years.
Many players feel that these early 3Bs offer more secure upper-register slotting and truer intonation compared to later versions.
For fans of legendary trombonist J.J. Johnson, this model has special resonance.
While J.J. played on various horns over his career — including King 2B/3B combos, brass-bell 3Bs, and later even a Yamaha — his sound on the 1970s album Pinnacles was produced on a Silversonic 3B, capturing the classic warm yet vibrant J.J. tone.
This horn received full professional shop service, including a chemical bath and a re-lacquered neckpipe, while the rest of the instrument was left in its original finish.
We intentionally preserved the vintage character — including light surface scratches and modest gold-plating wear on the inner-bell edge — because a full cosmetic overhaul can alter the response of a great-playing vintage horn.
There are plenty of overhauled horns on the market that look stunning with new lacquer but don’t necessarily retain the same playing qualities.
The handslide on this instrument was set up for professional-level alignment and smooth response at the time of sale.
It came in the original Gator-style King “coffin” case in excellent condition.
Mouthpiece not included.
Why is the King 3B so famous in the jazz world?
Since its introduction in the mid-20th century, the King 3B Silversonic has been a standard choice for lead and solo jazz trombonists thanks to its focused, lively tone and reliable response.
It remains one of the most popular jazz trombone models of all time.
What is special about the early-production 3B Silversonics?
The longer tuning-slide design of the late-1950s instruments is often preferred for its secure upper-register slotting and intonation stability.
Why leave vintage horns in their original finish?
Cosmetic overhauls with full re-lacquering can sometimes change the way a vintage horn responds.
We prefer to keep exceptional players like this as original as possible to preserve their character and feel.
Is this model still suitable for today’s players?
Absolutely. Vintage H.N. White-era 3B Silversonics continue to be highly prized by jazz and commercial players for their agility, warmth, and brilliant projection.
This King 3B Silversonic – Vintage Late-1950s H.N. White Era trombone has been sold and is now preserved here as a historical reference for players, collectors, and researchers.
🔎 Browse current jazz trombones at The Brass Exchange or 📞 contact us directly to inquire about comparable classic King or Silversonic models.
