[Harp-L] Marine band 365 in key of A

[bad_hat@xxxxx]

The answer to your question regarding the 365 Marine Band availability 
in the key of A is it appears that they were available but were 
discontinued many years ago.  I found a 1936 Hohner catalogue that 
states available in all keys for the 365.  They were $1.00 list then.  I 
have an older catalogue, likely 1920's, mentions the 365, no keys 
listed.  1950's going forward the 365 is listed as being available in C 
and G.  I have a later 1950's catalogue that has the 364 available in 
C,G,D.  I have a D 364 and it's a low D, no idea as to how old it is, I 
have too many harmonicas to remember.  I haven't found an A 365 yet but 
I have not unearthed all of mine yet.  Checked more modern Kevin's Harps 
catalogues, he had odd keys that were uncommon, an A SBS tuned with the 
low notes being an octave lower than normal.  The usual A SBS starts 
normally then goes up in pitch by an octave, same as the G does.  My low 
A SBS has a red comb like a 365.  I have not found any Hicksville era 
catalogues but I know I have at least one, somewhere.  I have older NYC 
catalogues and I have newer Virginia catalogues, no mention of an A 365.

I imagine that if they were made in the 1930's you will with persistent 
searching be able to locate one.  I have a patent applied for 1896 
Marine Band, it was not dear in price and it's a great playing 
harmonica.  One caveat, C and G harmonicas are easy to find, anything 
else is harder.  Took me forever to locate a Bb Marine Band, same for my 
A.  I have an 1896 MB in the key of G, it's pre WWII, it is my absolute 
favourite harmonica ever.  Bought it at a SPAH, had it retuned (7 limit 
JI), zero reed work, mounted on a newer pearwood comb, original covers. 
It is sublime.  Which is to say don't be afraid of older harmonicas, 
they can be really good.  Good Luck in your quest.