This Conn 40H tenor trombone from 1923 is an exceptionally rare and beautifully preserved example from Conn’s early 20th-century golden era. It features a .500 small bore design with tuning-in-the-slide (T.I.S.), a once-common but now seldom-seen configuration from this period. The most striking feature is its complete gold-plated finish, complemented by extensive ornate Conn engraving across the bell — a level of decorative craftsmanship seldom seen today.
Despite its age, this instrument arrived at The Brass Exchange in remarkable condition. It had been freshly cleaned and professionally serviced, including a full slide alignment and setup. The inner slide tubes showed no visible wear, which is almost unheard of for a horn over a century old. The slide action was smooth, true, and precise, allowing for accurate positions and surprisingly modern playability.
The 40H produced a focused, centered tone with more power than its size suggests, making it a practical choice for performance as well as collection. It would have been ideal for traditional jazz, early swing styles, or Arthur Pryor-style solos, where agility, projection, and tonal color are prized. The horn’s unique blend of playability and museum-worthy aesthetics make it one of the most special historic pieces to pass through our shop.
This instrument included its original period case and required no further service to improve appearance or playability. It represents a rare surviving piece of Conn’s rich heritage during their Elkhart manufacturing prime.
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What makes the Conn 40H historically significant?
Its 1923 build, tuning-in-slide design, full gold plating, and hand-engraved bell make it a rare surviving example of Conn’s ornate early craftsmanship.
Is it still playable or only collectible?
It is fully playable. Despite its age, this 40H had excellent slide alignment and produced a strong, centered tone — making it both a performance-capable instrument and a true collector’s piece.
📌 This Conn 40H has been sold and is now shown here as a historical reference for collectors and enthusiasts.
Looking for something similar? 🔎 Browse our available trombones.
📜 Interested in more rare Conn models from the Elkhart era?
Explore our Historical Conn Trombone Collection
