🔎 Historical Perspective
This King 3BF Trombone, serial number 467245, dates from the early 1970s and features the distinctive “ropy” style bell engraving that many collectors associate with this period of King production. Models from this era are known for their lively response, classic King tonal color, and dependable slide action.
This example received a full professional shop service at The Brass Exchange, including chemical cleaning and complete mechanical inspection. The slide was outstanding—smooth, fast, and well aligned—and the lacquer remained original and in remarkable condition for its age. Structurally it showed no signs of prior trauma, making it an excellent working example of a vintage 3BF.
The 3BF adds an F-attachment to the classic 3B platform, giving expanded lower range and convenient alternate positions without losing the familiar King feel. Many jazz and commercial players appreciate having that flexibility available for section work, pit orchestra playing, and big-band charts where quick position changes matter.
Examples like this early-1970s 3BF help illustrate why these instruments remain respected by players decades after production. They continue to offer the clarity, flexibility, and character that define the King sound.
The Brass Exchange has been serving brass players and collectors since 2010, preserving historically important instruments and helping musicians evaluate, trade, and consign vintage brass.
📷 Older Photography Note – Archive Image Context
These photos on this listing come from an earlier period of our shop photography. They still accurately document the instrument and its condition, but may not reflect our current studio style. They are preserved as part of the historical record of this King 3BF trombone.
✅ Common Questions
What is a King 3BF trombone?
A small-bore tenor trombone with F-attachment based on the classic King 3B design.
Why are early-1970s King trombones popular?
They combine strong build quality with the lively response and tonal character players associate with classic King horns.
How much is a vintage King 3BF worth?
Value depends on condition, originality, and service history. Archive examples like this help establish realistic market expectations.
🔧 Availability & Archive Status
This trombone has been sold and is now part of our Archive of Sold instruments. Archive listings remain online to help collectors and musicians research instrument history, specifications, and values.
📌 Archive Reference & Next Steps
Have a King trombone sitting in storage, downsizing a collection, or trying to decide the best way to sell? We help players and families determine value, explore trade-ins, and safely consign vintage brass instruments every week.
👉 Contact us here: https://www.thebrass-exchange.com/contact-us
👉 Browse current trombones here: https://thebrass-exchange.com/trombones
This King 3BF trombone is now shown as a historical reference for collectors and players. 📌
