“Vintage Hohner Identification / Dating Question”

[Levi008]

Hey everyone — I could use some help identifying a vintage Hohner Chromonika II.

I’ve already contacted a museum and got a general answer, but I’m still trying to narrow down the details.

Here’s what I know:

Model: Chromonika II

Markings: Chromatische Mundharmonica

Made in Germany

Award engravings include:

Chicago 1893

Philadelphia 1926

Geneva 1927

Paris 1937

From what I’ve read, the Paris 1937 stamp usually means it was made after that date, but the engraving style seems older, which is confusing.

So my questions:

1. Does anyone know if this layout indicates a transitional or early production run?

2. Were there engraving changes across the decades on the Chromonika II?

3. Does this look pre-war, wartime, or post-war to you?

Any insight from collectors or players who’ve owned early Chromonika II versions would be appreciated.

Photos attached.

Thanks in advance.

[SteveBaker]

Judging by the photos of the box, this looks like a 1930s instrument. The Paris 1937 stamp means it was manufactured after that date and the 6 pointed star on the bottom cover would tend to support this. The engravings remained pretty much unchanged because consumers liked the fact that they looked old. So my guess is that it’s a pre-war instrument. It appears to be in pretty good condition too.

Hope that helps

Steve