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

Patented in 1896 and virtually unchanged since, this is the harmonica that defined the sound of American blues in the early 20th century. The Marine Band 1896 from Hohner uses traditional nail assembly to fix its brass reed plates and covers, maintaining the construction method that gives this instrument its distinctive tonal character. Double lacquered pearwood forms the comb, sealed with two layers of clear lacquer to resist moisture and swelling during play. Curved covers with side vents deliver the authentic blues voice that made this model the benchmark for every diatonic harmonica that followed.

Twenty brass reeds are mounted on 0.9mm brass reed plates with a brass surface finish, tuned to B Natural Minor for expressive melodic playing. The pearwood comb sits between the reed plates in a configuration that has remained consistent for over a century, preserving the warm, responsive tone that attracted generations of players. A modern snapcase protects the instrument between sessions while maintaining portability. Originally designed for European folk music, this model became the dominant voice in early American blues and remains the reference standard for players seeking authentic tonal depth and dynamic response.

Features

• Key of B Natural Minor tuning for melodic expression
• 20 brass reeds on 0.9mm thick brass reed plates
• Traditional nail assembly fixes reed plates and covers
• Double lacquered pearwood comb resists moisture and swelling
• Curved covers with side vents for classic blues tone
• Brass surface finish on reed plates throughout
• 1896 original design maintained for over 125 years
• Includes protective snapcase for storage and transport