Early R series #R13417 88h in great shape. I know the debate of is it an Abilene horn or Elkhart? The bell is marked with the conn logo from the elkhart era but says “made in USA”. It plays like an elkhart to me and is a phenomenal horn.

The bell is Gold brass and the trigger is quick, w great compression. Tuning slides are free from dents and the lacquer is fully intact. There are some minor dents in a couple spots on the bell, and would be an easy fix for someone w the right tools, and more knowledge/skill than me.

The slide is in very good shape w spring loaded barrels. There is some lacquer ware on contact points and light scratches on outer slide tubes. The top slide is fast, but the bottom has a slight drag and could use an alignment. But the good news is the stockings are free from conn ware. This is a great horn, and would like to clean it up and keep it, but my tech is old in his years and I would have to wait a couple months to get it back. So whatever ya want to call it late Elkhart early Abilene, this horn is a player.

My "R" series 88H (purchased new in 1972) is also a terrific trombone - I've always thought of it as an Elkhart, but it doesn't really matter; it plays like a dream. Same bell engraving. No visible wear of any consequence whatever. The only better 88H I've ever played wasn't a Conn - it was an early Steve Shires trombone! In any case, I'm not selling mine (you can purchase it from my estate some day). Joe's price is quite reasonable for a quality instrument like this.

Hi Joe

Is this still available and would you consider shipping to the UK?