Here is a nice Buescher 400 "Top Hat and Cane" tenor saxophone. The 400 was the top of the line, professional model produced by Buescher in Elkhart, IN during the pinnacle of American Saxophone production in the 1940's. This particular horn is from 1949.

The 400 model was known for its elaborate engraving, which featured a top hat and cane above a castle that overlooks a spruce tree-lined lake, along with floral ornamentation to fill out the rest of the bell. This beautiful engraving on the 400's is further augmented by the silver "Buescher" script on the bell and the silver band on the backside of the bell flare. These horns are truly beautiful pieces of art as well as incredibly well-playing saxophones.

Buescher 400's from this era are some of the best examples of American-made horns and are known for their powerful, round and punchy tone. They have a beautiful and warm lushness to them and can also scream and bite when you push them. This horn certainly delivers on the above mentioned!

Physically, this horn is not a museum piece, but is in nice overall shape for being just over 70 years old. There is a normal amount of lacquer loss from use over the years. The neck had some minor damage that was repaired in house. There is a slight crease line in the side of the neck, but it is still solid and no signs of leaking. This horn just received a complete mechanical overhaul in our shop. It is ready to go for a long life of playing. It will has Pisoni Pro pads with the original snaps and Norton springs.

"Top Hat & Cane" saxophones are some of the finest playing saxophones ever made and are also one of the best values in the vintage saxophone market. Whoever decides to make this horn theirs will certainly not regret it!

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