Brand directory/Besson/Serial number
Start with your instrument

When was it made?

Enter the serial number marked on your Besson instrument — usually on the valve casing, bell or receiver.

Paris to London.
A brass-band legend.
In this archive
Serial numbers & production eras · 1858–2006
Result format
Year or estimated range
Additional details
Factory & series, when known
Where can I find the number?
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Where to find the number
all_brass

Serial on the valve section; on London-built instruments also at the bell rim. First identify the tradition from the engraving: “Besson Paris” vs “Besson London / B&H”.

Frequently asked
What serial numbers does this archive cover for Besson?

The archive currently covers 3 series and 53 dating ranges from 1858 to 2006, compiled from published maker records and reference charts. Coverage grows as new tables are verified.

Where is the serial number on a Besson instrument?

Serial on the valve section; on London-built instruments also at the bell rim. First identify the tradition from the engraving: “Besson Paris” vs “Besson London / B&H”. The exact spot varies by era and instrument type — the serial number guide walks through the common locations.

What if my Besson serial number is not found?

Recheck the characters exactly as marked, including any letters and leading zeros. Letter-prefixed numbers often belong to student or non-domestic lines that cannot be dated from the number. Some production periods may simply not be covered yet.