This King 2B Liberty trombone was built in the early 1960s at the H.N. White factory in Cleveland, Ohio and carries serial number 391061. It comes from a single original owner and is in remarkably well-preserved condition, representing one of the finest surviving examples of this legendary small-bore jazz model.
The horn features a .481/.491 dual-bore handslide, 7.375" bell, and the compact balance and light response that made the 2B a favorite among top professional players for decades — including Tommy Dorsey, Kai Winding, and Urbie Green, who all helped establish its reputation as one of the most versatile and expressive small-bore trombones ever built.
This particular 2B shows minimal lacquer wear, with no history of bell damage, major repairs, or slide trauma. The tuning slide has had minor dent work done in the past, but is now in excellent alignment. The inners are original, straight, and free of plating loss, wear, or defects, and the slide action is exceptionally smooth and quiet.
The instrument has received full professional shop service, including a chemical bath, full slide alignment, and mechanical inspection, ensuring it is ready to play. It delivers the warm, centered “King sound” that has defined this model for generations — a lively tone that stays focused even at higher dynamics, making it ideal for lead playing, section work, and jazz soloing.
As of 2025, a new King 2B Legend Series retails for over $3,000, but at The Brass Exchange we prefer the original vintage models like this one from the 1960s. We believe the current-day Kings are merely replicas of the classic instruments built during the 1930s–1960s and do not match their craftsmanship or resonance.
This horn includes its original case, which remains in excellent condition and has been protected since purchase by a custom leather case cover (available separately for $100).
📝 Historical Reference
This King 2B has been sold and is now part of our Archive of Sold Instruments, preserved here as a reference for collectors, educators, and players researching early H.N. White-era King trombones.
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❓ FAQ
Q: What is the difference between a King 2B and a King 3B?
A: The King 2B and King 3B are both legendary jazz trombones, but they have different bore sizes and tonal characteristics:
King 2B Liberty — features a .481/.491 dual-bore slide and a 7.375" bell, producing a light, brilliant, and focused tone. It responds quickly and projects easily, making it ideal for lead playing, section work, and commercial or studio use where agility and clarity are key.
King 3B — features a .508 bore slide and an 8" bell, offering a broader, fuller, and more open sound with more low-end presence. It’s a popular choice for versatile jazz work, big band playing, and even lighter classical use.
While they share similar design DNA and excellent slide action, the 2B feels lighter and more nimble, while the 3B offers more breadth and power.
💿 Listening Tip: If you’d like to hear the difference, check out “Jay and Kai + 6” (1956) featuring J.J. Johnson on a King 3B and Kai Winding on a King 2B. Their contrasting tones offer a clear real-world example of each instrument’s character.
