Original Marine Band harmonica

Made of nickel coated brass and with a pearwood comb, the Marine band is virtually unchanged since 1896. In an early example of 'celebrity' endorsement it was named after the famous band led by John Philip Sousa, whose picture still appears on the case. In due course this model became the most popular harmonica of all time, perhaps especially because during the era of the great depression it formed a an affordable introduction to a musical education with a professional quality instrument. It's now considered the original blues harmonica, a favourite of the likes of Little Walter, Neil Young, John Lennon and Bruce Springsteen. Still assembled, tested and tuned by hand in Hohner's German factory, and complete with a protective plastic case. In the key of C.