1960 Selmer Paris 80 Super Action Tenor Saxophone

The Horn That Changed Jazz

The 1960 Selmer Paris 80 Super Action tenor saxophone occupies a hallowed place in the saxophone world. Produced during what many consider the golden era of Selmer saxophone manufacturing, these instruments combined French craftsmanship with design innovations that would influence saxophone construction for decades. The Super Action 80 (also known as the SA80 Series I) from this vintage represents Selmer at its peak, when the company was the undisputed benchmark for professional saxophones.

Selmer Paris (Henri Selmer Paris, to give the full name) had been making saxophones since 1921, but the post-war period through the 1960s is widely regarded as the company's finest era. The instruments produced during this time were played by virtually every major jazz saxophonist, from John Coltrane to Sonny Rollins to Stan Getz.

Historical Context

The year 1960 falls within the production run of what collectors and players call the "Mark VI" era, Selmer's most celebrated saxophone model. The Mark VI was produced from 1954 to 1974, and 1960-vintage examples are particularly prized because they represent the middle of the production run, when manufacturing processes were fully refined.

Note: There is some confusion in the saxophone community between the Mark VI and the later Super Action 80 (introduced in 1981). The "80 Super Action" designation in the queue item may refer to the predecessor models that led to the SA80. For this guide, we focus on 1960 Selmer Paris tenor saxophones, which would be Mark VI models.

1960 Selmer Mark VI Serial Number Range

• Tenor saxophones from 1960 fall approximately in the serial number range of 75,000 to 82,000

• Serial numbers are found engraved on the body of the horn near the thumb rest

Specifications

Technical Details

• Key: Bb Tenor

• Material: Yellow brass body with lacquer or silver plate finish

• Bore: Medium-large

• Tone Holes: Drawn and rolled (not soldered)

• Key Action: Right-hand bell keys

• Engraving: Elaborate hand engraving on bell and body

• Case: Original Selmer hardshell case

• Made in: Paris, France

The drawn tone holes are a characteristic feature of Selmer's manufacturing process during this era. Unlike soldered tone holes used by many competitors, drawn tone holes are pulled directly from the body tube, creating a seamless connection that many players and technicians believe contributes to the instrument's tonal quality.

Playing Characteristics

A well-maintained 1960 Selmer tenor saxophone offers:

• Rich, warm tonal core with excellent projection

• Responsive key action with minimal resistance

• Excellent intonation across the full range

• Comfortable ergonomics refined through years of player feedback

• Flexibility that responds to a wide range of mouthpiece and reed setups

These instruments are not museum pieces. Many remain in active use by professional musicians who prefer their sound quality to modern alternatives. The combination of mature materials (brass that has aged and "opened up" over 60+ years) and vintage manufacturing techniques creates tonal characteristics that are difficult to replicate in new production.

Condition and Value Guide

Current Market Values

• Excellent (90%+ original lacquer, pads recently replaced, plays well): $8,000 to $15,000

• Very Good (70-90% lacquer, needs some pad work, structurally sound): $6,000 to $10,000

• Good (50-70% lacquer, needs overhaul, no major damage): $4,000 to $7,000

• Fair (significant lacquer loss, needs complete overhaul, possible dent repair): $3,000 to $5,000

• Relacquered (original lacquer stripped and replaced): $3,000 to $6,000 (relacquering reduces value 30-40%)

Condition Factors

• Original lacquer percentage: The single biggest value factor. 90%+ lacquer commands top premiums.

• Pad condition: Fresh pads from a qualified technician add $800-$1,500 in overhaul cost but make the horn playable.

• Dents and dings: Minor dings are normal for 60+ year old instruments. Major dents affecting playability reduce value significantly.

• Neck condition: The neck is the most vulnerable component. Original necks in good condition are essential for full value.

• Engraving clarity: Sharp, clear engraving indicates careful ownership.

• Original case: Adds $100-$300 to value.

Authentication

Counterfeit Selmer saxophones exist, and some genuine Selmers have been misrepresented regarding model or vintage. Key authentication points:

• Serial number should correspond to 1960 production records (cross-reference with published Selmer serial number charts)

• Engraving style should match the period (Selmer's engraving patterns changed over the years)

• Key layout and mechanism design should be consistent with Mark VI specifications

• "Henri Selmer Paris" should be engraved on the bell

• "Made in France" marking should be present

• Body construction should show drawn (not soldered) tone holes

The Mark VI Phenomenon

The Selmer Mark VI has achieved almost mythical status in the saxophone community. Several factors contribute:

• Nearly every major jazz saxophonist from the 1950s through 1980s played one

• Vintage instruments have "played in" characteristics that new horns lack

• The aged brass develops resonance properties through decades of vibration

• Manufacturing tolerances of the era produced slight individual variations that give each horn a unique voice

• Limited remaining supply as instruments are lost to damage, theft, or neglect

Care and Maintenance

• Store in a quality case when not in use

• Swab after every playing session to remove moisture

• Have pads inspected annually by a qualified saxophone technician

• Do not attempt to remove dents yourself. Professional dent work requires specialized tools and skills

• Clean the mouthpiece regularly but avoid harsh chemicals on the body

• If the horn needs a complete overhaul, seek a technician experienced with vintage Selmer instruments

Investment Outlook

Vintage Selmer saxophones, particularly Mark VI models from the late 1950s and 1960s, have shown consistent appreciation. The instruments serve a dual market as both playable professional tools and collectible artifacts, creating robust demand from both working musicians and collectors.

Final Thoughts

A 1960 Selmer Paris tenor saxophone is more than an instrument. It is a connection to the golden age of jazz and the peak of French brass instrument craftsmanship. Whether purchased for its playing qualities or its historical significance, a well-preserved example from this era represents one of the most compelling acquisitions in the vintage instrument market.

Browse all Musical Instruments ->

Related Items