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

Patented in 1896 and virtually unchanged since, the Hohner Marine Band 1896 in D Natural Minor carries over a century of blues history in its pearwood body. This is the harmonica that defined American blues in the early 20th century, played by every major harp player of that era. Traditional nail assembly fixes the 0.9 mm brass reed plates and covers to the double–lacquered pearwood comb, delivering the authentic tone and response that made this instrument the benchmark for blues expression. The curved covers feature side vents that shape the classic Marine Band sound, while the double lacquer finish on the comb reduces swelling from moisture during extended playing sessions.

The D Natural Minor tuning opens up expressive possibilities beyond standard diatonic keys, particularly for modal playing and darker melodic passages. Twenty brass reeds respond with the characteristic warmth and grit that has made this model the reference standard for over 120 years. The 0.9 mm brass reed plates provide the mass and rigidity needed for consistent tuning stability and the responsive attack blues players depend on. A modern plastic snapcase protects the instrument between sessions while maintaining the traditional aesthetic that has defined this model since the 19th century.

Features

• Key of D Natural Minor for modal and expressive blues playing
• Traditional nail assembly with brass reed plates and curved covers
• 0.9 mm brass reed plates for tuning stability and response
• 20 brass reeds with authentic Marine Band voicing and tone
• Double–lacquered pearwood comb reduces moisture swelling during play
• Curved covers with side vents for original blues harmonica sound
• Design unchanged since 1896 patent for historical authenticity
• Includes protective plastic snapcase for storage and transport