Selmer Balanced Action Tenor Saxophone Serial No. 21888 – First Year Production | Vintage 2nd Hand | Mechanically Refurbished | Rare Professional Saxophone

The Selmer Balanced Action Tenor Saxophone, serial number 21888, is an extraordinary instrument from the first year of Balanced Action production. Regarded as one of the most influential saxophone designs in history, the Balanced Action revolutionised modern saxophone ergonomics and laid the foundation for every professional Selmer model that followed. Early examples such as this are exceptionally rare, highly sought after, and prized by discerning musicians and collectors worldwide.

This instrument is fitted with a genuine 1960s Selmer Mark VI neck, a combination that many professional players appreciate for its free-blowing response, enhanced projection, and remarkable tonal flexibility. The pairing of an early Balanced Action body with a Mark VI neck creates a unique playing experience, blending the rich, expansive character of the Balanced Action with the responsiveness of one of Selmer's most celebrated neck designs.

This 2nd hand Tenor 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 remarkable vintage character.

Features

• Authentic Selmer Balanced Action Tenor Saxophone

• Serial Number 21888

• First year of Balanced Action production

• Fitted with a genuine 1960s Selmer Mark VI neck

• Genuine 2nd hand vintage French professional saxophone

• Mechanically refurbished and performance ready

• Rich, complex tone with exceptional projection and responsiveness

• Classic Selmer ergonomics with smooth, precise key action

• Ideal for professional musicians, collectors, and vintage saxophone enthusiasts

• Includes case (where applicable)

Why Choose the Selmer Balanced Action?

The Selmer Balanced Action is one of the most important saxophones ever built. Introduced in the mid-1930s, it represented a revolutionary leap in keywork design and player comfort, establishing the blueprint that would ultimately lead to the legendary Mark VI. First-year examples are especially desirable, representing the beginning of a design that changed the course of saxophone history.

The addition of a genuine 1960s Mark VI neck gives this instrument an appealing blend of historical significance and modern performance characteristics. Many players value this combination for its lively response, focused projection, and effortless versatility across jazz, classical, and contemporary styles.

Today, early Balanced Actions are among the most rare and sought after vintage Selmers available. Their exceptional craftsmanship, rich tonal complexity, and historical importance have secured their place among the world's most desirable professional saxophones.

If you're searching for a vintage Selmer Balanced Action Tenor Saxophone, a mechanically refurbished 2nd hand tenor saxophone, or a rare pro luxury deluxe French saxophone, this first-year production example, serial number 21888, fitted with a genuine 1960s Mark VI neck, represents an exceptional opportunity to acquire one of the most historically significant tenor saxophones ever produced.