This Olds Opera trombone, serial #215835, was built in the mid-1950s and represents one of the most distinctive professional models from Olds. Known as the nickel silver model, it features an 8.5" bell and matching nickel slide with a dual-bore of .550–.551 for large shank mouthpieces. While most Operas of this era were produced in nickel silver, some examples have surfaced with yellow brass bells — this one is the nickel silver version, the configuration most commonly associated with the model.
The Opera is celebrated for its commanding tonal presence and projection, yet retains a smooth, lyrical character that works beautifully in smaller jazz ensembles. Jazz legend Curtis Fuller famously played an Opera and can be heard with it on John Coltrane’s Blue Train, showcasing its depth and clarity.
This example is all original, with original lacquer and parts intact. It has never had major damage or undergone significant repair work. The lacquer remains in very good condition overall, with only minor loss on one small area of the outer bell flare. Its appearance is striking, reflecting the excellent craftsmanship of Olds in the 1950s.
It also includes the original Olds #15 mouthpiece in excellent condition, making it both a playable professional instrument and a collectible piece of Olds history. The horn received full shop service a few years ago before being traded in for a smaller model, and we recently performed slide clean-up.
The inner slide shows plating loss around the stocking areas, but the wear is smooth and not gritty. Using our jeweler’s rouge feather-polish technique, we’ve blended the worn spots to improve response. The slide’s naturally weighty build further helps reduce drag. With proper lubrication — we recommend Yamaha liquid slide treatment, though Trombontine or Superslick creams also work well — the slide plays comfortably and reliably.
Overall, this mid-’50s Opera offers an outstanding combination of excellent originality, attractive condition, and strong playability.
Q&A Section:
🤔 Is the Olds Opera considered a professional model?
Yes — the Opera was Olds’ flagship large-bore tenor trombone in the 1950s, designed for advanced players who needed projection and tonal power.
🤔 What makes this example unique?
It is the nickel silver model with an 8.5" bell, .550–.551 dual-bore slide, and comes with the original Olds #15 mouthpiece in excellent condition.
🤔 How does the slide perform with plating wear?
The plating loss is confined to the stocking areas and feels smooth, not rough. With proper polishing and lubrication, the slide plays well and remains comfortable.
🤔 Were all Opera trombones nickel silver?
Most Operas from this era were nickel silver, like this one, though some variants with yellow brass bells are known to exist.
This mid-1950s Olds Opera, serial #215835, is a rare professional trombone offered with its original mouthpiece and strong playability. A unique chance to own a piece of jazz history, ready to enjoy today.
Thinking about trading in another trombone toward this instrument? Use the orange Trade-In/Consign box next to the “Add to Cart” button, or fill out our trade-in form here.👉
