Selmer Balanced Action Alto Saxophone Serial No. 23651 (Circa 1937) – Silver Plated with Gold Wash Bell | Vintage | Mechanically Refurbished | Rare Professional French Saxophone

The Selmer Balanced Action Alto Saxophone, serial number 23651, dating from circa 1937, is a magnificent example of one of the most influential saxophones ever produced. Finished in an elegant silver plate with a stunning gold wash bell, this exceptional instrument combines historical significance with luxurious aesthetics, making it an outstanding choice for professional musicians, collectors, and vintage saxophone enthusiasts.

Manufactured during the early years of Balanced Action production, this circa 1937 example represents a pivotal moment in saxophone history. The Balanced Action revolutionised instrument design with its innovative keywork and ergonomics, setting the standard for every professional Selmer model that followed. Early examples finished in silver plate with a gold wash bell are particularly rare and highly sought after, offering both visual elegance and exceptional musical performance.

This alto saxophone has been mechanically refurbished by an experienced technician. The mechanism has been carefully inspected, regulated, adjusted, and play-tested to ensure smooth, reliable performance while preserving the instrument's original vintage character and finish.

The result is a saxophone with a rich, warm, and remarkably expressive voice. The Balanced Action is celebrated for its broad tonal palette, effortless response, and exceptional projection, making it equally suited to jazz, classical, solo performance, and studio work.

Features

• Authentic Selmer Balanced Action Alto Saxophone

• Serial Number 23651 (Circa 1937)

• Original silver-plated finish

• Beautiful gold wash bell

• Mechanically refurbished and performance ready

• Rich, warm tone with exceptional projection and tonal complexity

• Early Balanced Action with revolutionary ergonomics

• Outstanding intonation and expressive response

• Ideal for professional musicians, collectors, and discerning players

• Includes case (where applicable)

Why Choose the Selmer Balanced Action?

The Selmer Balanced Action is widely recognised as one of the most important saxophones in musical history. Introduced in the mid-1930s, it transformed saxophone ergonomics and became the direct predecessor to the legendary Super Balanced Action and Mark VI. Early examples from circa 1937 are especially prized by collectors, representing the formative years of this groundbreaking design.

Examples finished in silver plate with a gold wash bell are among the most desirable Balanced Actions ever produced. The striking contrast between the brilliant silver body and the warm gold interior of the bell creates a truly luxurious appearance, while many players appreciate the lively response, enhanced projection, and refined tonal character often associated with silver-plated instruments.

Increasingly rare and highly sought after, original Balanced Actions of this calibre are considered true pro luxury instruments, admired for both their musical excellence and their enduring collectability.

If you're searching for a vintage Selmer Balanced Action Alto Saxophone, a mechanically refurbished professional alto saxophone, or a rare deluxe silver-plated French saxophone with a gold wash bell, this circa 1937 example, serial number 23651, represents an exceptional opportunity to acquire one of Selmer's most historically significant and visually stunning instruments.