Selmer Dorsey Alto Saxophone

This is a beautiful 1939 Selmer Dorsey model alto saxophone. For those of you who don't know, this is a very rare Selmer. The body tube is all Balanced Action, while the bell is from the earlier Radio Improved models, including retro-fit left hand table and bell to body brace.
The classical Balanced Action floral engraving is beautiful. It's pretty clear that this horn was re-lacquered as the engraving is not as sharp as it would have originally been, but it looks like a very old, well done re-lacquer.
Another sign that this is a second series Dorsey model is the sheet metal Low B/Bb key guard with adjustable bumpers, which is soldered over the wire guard. Apparently the first run was only a wire guard, much like a Radio Improved or earlier Selmer. The second run of the Dorsey models placed the portrait engraving of a sailboat in the front center of the bell.
The retro-fit Radio Improved left hand table featured on this horn was said to be preferred by Dorsey's sax players over the newer Balanced Action left hand table.
Learn more about these saxophones at MusicMedic.com:
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