For sale is a true, playable piece of American music history: a Pre-Owned Lyon & Healy 3-Valve Eb Tuba, built in Chicago circa the 1920s. Back in the era of early traditional jazz and community brass bands, Lyon & Healy was a staple of the American brass scene.
What makes this specific 100-year-old horn so remarkable is that it is not just a wall-hanger—it is a fully functional, highly playable instrument. The valve action is shockingly good, and the horn plays without any leaks. Whether you are a vintage brass collector, a Dixieland player, or a tubist looking for a compact Eb for strolling gigs, this is an incredible find.
This tuba is perfect for the Trad Jazz/Dixieland musician, vintage brass collector, or doubler. Because it is an Eb tuba with a highly compact frame (only 30 inches tall!), it is incredibly easy to carry for walking band gigs, New Orleans-style second lines, or acoustic sets where a massive modern BBb or CC tuba would visually and acoustically overpower the ensemble.
Condition Report & Shop Prep
- Finish (Cosmetics): Heavy Vintage Patina. This tuba is currently wearing 100 years of history! The original silver plating is completely intact but has developed a heavy, natural silver-sulfide tarnish, making the horn look almost black. Many players love this raw, unpolished vintage aesthetic.
- Optional Polish Service: If you want this century-old silver to gleam like it did in the 1920s, our expert in-house technicians offer a comprehensive, deep silver polish service upon request. Please contact us directly to add this service to your purchase!
- Mechanics: Excellent / Fully Functional. Despite its age, the 3-valve block functions beautifully. The valves are smooth, even, and the horn seals with no leaks.
- Body: Structurally solid for its age, showing the expected honest wear, minor dings, and character of a century-old instrument.
Specifications
- Brand: Lyon & Healy (Chicago)
- Era: Circa 1920s
- Key: Eb
- Valves: 3 Piston Valves
- Height: 30 Inches
- Bell Diameter: 15 Inches
- Finish: Silver Plate (Heavily Tarnished / Unpolished)
- Condition: Pre-Owned / Vintage Player's Condition
- No Case
Why Choose Fleming Music?
Here at Fleming Instruments, our expert on-site instrument repair workshop guarantees that each instrument we sell is meticulously inspected and accurately represented before it reaches you. We take pride in offering a 1-year warranty and 2-week return policy on all instruments, giving you peace of mind with your investment. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service, so please reach out to us at the shop via phone, email, or website contact: https://flemingrepair.com/pages/contact.
For the most competitive pricing, financing options, or to discuss adding our deep silver polish service to your order, please contact us directly!
As always, we invite you to stop by our Houston shop to try this instrument in person. Nothing compares to the experience of a horn in your own hands. Follow our accounts on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for the latest updates, content, and promotions: https://linktr.ee/Fleming_Music. We are grateful for your support of our small business and look forward to helping you find your sound!
