Hohner Marine Band 1896 Harmonica in the Key of Ab Harmonic Minor

Patented in 1896 and barely changed since, this harmonica in Ab Harmonic Minor delivers the raw, organic tone that defined early American blues. The Marine Band 1896 from Hohner uses traditional nail assembly to fix reed plates and covers, giving it the authentic look, feel, and acoustic response that modern screw–assembly models can't replicate. A double–lacquered pearwood comb resists swelling from moisture while maintaining the warm resonance that made this design the reference standard for over a century.

The 0.9mm brass reed plates house 20 brass reeds, delivering the characteristic bright attack and fast response blues players depend on. Curved covers with side vents shape the airflow for that classic Marine Band voice – direct, cutting, and expressive across all 10 holes. The Ab Harmonic Minor tuning opens up Eastern European and Middle Eastern melodic possibilities alongside blues and rock applications. Each unit ships in a practical snapcase for protection between gigs and sessions.

Features

• Ab Harmonic Minor tuning for blues and modal playing
• Traditional nail assembly for authentic tone and historical accuracy
• 0.9mm brass reed plates with 20 brass reeds
• Curved covers with side vents for classic blues sound projection
• Double–lacquered pearwood comb reduces moisture swelling
• Traditional construction methods unchanged since 1896 patent
• Brass reed plate surface finish for bright harmonic overtones
• Includes protective snapcase for storage and transport