What makes an old harmonica worth so much?

However, if your old harmonica is shaped like a zeppelin, an automobile, a fish, a boomerang or a rooster, or if it features art deco style paintwork, or has bells, pipes or horns attached to it, then you might possibly be holding something of value. If it is in impeccable condition and has its original box, then it is probably worth even more.

When was the one billionth harmonica made?

Harmonicas were made literally by the thousand and even sometimes by the million (Hohner, just one of the many companies to have manufactured them, produced their one billionth harmonica more than a quarter century ago).

What was the trademark of the Hohner harmonica?

Hohner used various trademarks over the years, but a particularly common one was a circle being held by two hands. Look in the middle of the circle – if there is a star inside it, then it is probable that it was made prior to WWII. Here is an example:

How can you tell the age of a Hohner harmonica?

One fairly reliable way get some idea of the age of certain Hohner models is by the trademark on the cover. Hohner used various trademarks over the years, but a particularly common one was a circle being held by two hands.

What kind of notes does a vintage harmonica make?

Vintage Harmonicas. Harmonicas pack a lot of engineering into a small space, producing different notes depending on whether the player is blowing out or breathing in. Players can further enhance these sounds by shaking their heads to create appealing vibratos, or bending notes to give the instrument a mournful moan that often recalls the wail…