Harmonica owned by Sonny Boy Williamson II

Source catalog description

This description refers to material held by Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Visual details below describe the original material.

A brass Hohner Marine Band harmonica owned and played by Sonny Boy Williamson II. A hand-length metallic harmonica featuring a reddish brown comb with engraved embossing’s on both sides the instrument’s face. The comb has 14 chamber holes. On one side of the harmonica are the founding figure’s bust engraving framed by crossed leaves and “MADE IN GERMANY”. Beside it in light embossing is “MARINE BAND” with “M. Hohner” engraved at the bottom like a signature. On the reverse side of the harmonica are multiple circular embossed engravings representing the history of the manufacturer. The two handed “GESETZL./GESCH” logo, is featured in the middle. On either side of the iconic logo are circular embossing’s depicting harps, eagles, wreaths, plaques, and years (1983 to 1937), with “MADE IN GERMANY / FRABRIQUE EN ALLEMAGNE” engraved at the bottom, below the M. Hohner embossing.

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