Overview
This King 3BF Silversonic 100th Anniversary model from the 1990s features the classic sterling-silver bell with gold wash and the familiar King medium-bore response that has made the 3B one of the most popular jazz and commercial trombones of all time.
The handslide on this example was exceptionally quick and responsive, with smooth action and strong alignment. The instrument showed no dents or major repairs. There was minor acid bleed visible on the bell rim near the 1:00 position, a cosmetic detail occasionally seen on silver bells from this era, but otherwise the horn presented very well and played beautifully.
This was a single-owner instrument used by a professional player in rock and commercial settings who maintained it carefully. The original King case is included along with original paperwork and a Bach Corp 12C mouthpiece still sealed in its packaging.
For lead, jazz, and commercial players, the Silversonic bell adds depth and projection to the classic King 3B feel while retaining the fast response that studio players love.
📸 Photography From Our Early Archive
These photos come from the earlier years of The Brass Exchange and reflect the evolution of our instrument photography over time. While techniques have improved, our goal has always been the same: clear, honest images that help musicians evaluate instruments remotely with confidence.
🏛️ Historical Perspective
The King Silversonic models have long held a special place in the trombone world. The sterling-silver bell construction gives a different resonance and projection compared to traditional brass bells. From a professional player’s perspective, sterling bells require a bit more energy to fully resonate, but once mastered, the tonal energy is enormous and difficult to match with standard brass construction.
Anniversary models like this 3BF also reflect King’s long history in Cleveland and Eastlake production, celebrating one of the most influential jazz trombone designs ever made.
📌 Planning Ahead for Your Instrument Collection
Many of the finest King trombones we sell come from musicians and families planning ahead or downsizing collections. If you have vintage King instruments or Silversonic models to value or sell, we’re happy to help with appraisals, consignment planning, and careful placement with the next generation of players.
Contact us for a valuation and explore your options ✍️
🔧 Availability & Archive Status
This King 3BF Silversonic has been sold and is now shown here as part of our Archive of Sold instruments. Archive listings serve as historical references for collectors and players researching King Silversonic trombones.
Looking for something similar? Browse our current trombone inventory 👉
https://thebrass-exchange.com/trombones
📣 Archive Reference Note
This trombone has been sold and remains here as a collector reference example of a 1990s King 3BF Silversonic 100th Anniversary model. If you have a similar instrument to sell or would like help planning an estate collection, we’re always happy to talk. 🔎
