🔎 Historical Perspective
This King 3B Model 2103 Trombone, built in the late 1980s or early 1990s, represents a later production example of one of the most influential small-bore trombone designs ever made. The King 3B has long been known for its quick response, brilliant projection, and unmistakable King tonal character in jazz and commercial settings.
This example featured the standard 8" yellow brass bell paired with a lightweight .508 bore nickel silver handslide. It had seen honest playing over the years, including a few small dings and routine repairs along the way, yet remained a solid and dependable player. The handslide was excellent—smooth, responsive, and well aligned.
Instruments like this often appeal to experienced players who normally use a large-bore tenor but want a dependable small-bore horn for jazz band, combo work, or pit orchestra use. The King 3B’s flexibility and clarity continue to make it one of the most widely recommended jazz trombones in history.
This trombone included an excellent Cronkhite Cordura case with backpack straps—lightweight, durable, and practical for everyday transport. Examples like this show how well these instruments can hold their musical value even after decades of use.
The Brass Exchange has been serving brass players and collectors since 2010, helping musicians evaluate instruments and preserving historically important models through our archive program.
📷 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 3B Model 2103.
✅ Common Questions
Is a late-1980s King 3B still a professional instrument?
Yes. Many players continue to use these horns because of their response, clarity, and versatility.
What makes the King 3B popular for jazz?
Its .508 bore slide gives quick articulation and brilliant projection, ideal for lead and commercial playing.
How much is a used King 3B 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 3B 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 3B Model 2103 trombone is now shown as a historical reference for collectors and players. 📌
