Hohner Marine Band 1896 Harmonica in the Key of A Natural Minor

Patented in 1896 and built with the same traditional nail assembly used for over a century, this Hohner harmonica in A natural minor remains the archetypal blues instrument. Reed plates and covers are affixed with nails rather than screws, maintaining the authentic construction method that defined early American blues. The pearwood comb is sealed with two layers of clear lacquer to reduce swelling from moisture during play. This is the harmonica heard on countless blues recordings from the early 20th century to today, favoured by players who want that raw, expressive tone that became synonymous with the genre.

The curved covers feature side vents that contribute to the characteristic blues sound – a design detail that shapes both projection and tonal response. Twenty brass reeds are mounted on 0.9mm brass reed plates with a brass surface finish. The A natural minor tuning provides immediate access to minor scales and melodies, making it particularly effective for blues, folk, and modal playing styles. Comes with a modern plastic snapcase for protection between gigs and practice sessions.

Features

• Traditional nail assembly fixes reed plates and covers for authentic construction
• Curved covers with side vents deliver the original blues harmonica sound
• Double lacquered pearwood comb resists moisture swelling during extended playing
• Tuned to A natural minor for blues and modal harmonica styles
• Twenty brass reeds on 0.9mm thick brass reed plates
• Brass surface finish on reed plates for traditional tonal response
• Snapcase included for protection and portability between sessions
• Design unchanged since 1896 patent, maintaining classic blues tone and playability