This Conn 12H, built in 1952 (SN 396239), is a beautifully preserved example of Conn’s celebrated Elkhart-era Coprion small bore jazz trombone. It features a 7" seamless copper Coprion bell and a .484–.485 bore handslide, producing the signature Conn 12H sound — crisp, colorful, and powerful enough to be heard from a mile away.
The bell and tuning slide have been de-lacquered by a previous owner and display an attractive scratch-brushed bare brass finish. A qualified brass shop could easily re-lacquer them if desired, as all surface prep has already been completed. The horn showcases distinctive, crisp Art Deco engraving that reflects Conn’s design aesthetic of the era.
We performed a complete in-house shop service, including a full chemical bath cleaning, slide alignment, and mechanical inspection. The horn is free of dents or dings and plays effortlessly. The slide is responsive and well-aligned, showing some minor typical “Conn wear” plating loss on the inner tubes. As with many vintage horns from the early 1950s, this type of light wear is expected — it doesn’t make the instrument unplayable, but players should not expect it to feel like a brand-new 2025 professional slide. Its price fairly reflects this, offering an opportunity to own a classic 12H with character and history at excellent value.
Conn 12Hs are beloved for their compact agility paired with surprising tonal punch. The Coprion bell construction adds brilliance, bite, and enhanced upper overtones while still offering warmth and control at softer dynamics. This makes the 12H a stellar choice for lead players, traditional jazz, New Orleans-style, Dixieland, or bebop settings, and a favorite among collectors who also want a horn they can gig with.
This trombone includes its original case in good condition. It’s ready to play and would be an excellent choice for any serious jazz musician or Conn enthusiast.
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What is special about the Conn 12H Coprion bell?
The seamless copper Coprion bell delivers a vibrant, projecting sound with added brilliance and tonal bite, enhancing upper overtones while maintaining warmth.
What styles does the Conn 12H suit best?
It excels in small-group jazz, trad, bebop, or lead roles where agility, clarity, and projection are essential — perfect for players who want character and presence in their sound.📌
This Conn 12H has been sold and is now part of our Archive of Sold instruments, preserved here as a historical reference.
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