I am looking to buy a used bassoon as a starting instrument to learn on; a local store has a rather beautiful-looking Mollenhauer bassoon being sold on consignment (at an asking price of roughly $6000).

The store cannot however tell me which model it is, although they have a serial number; and as a beginner I have no real way of evaluating the instrument in terms of how it plays.

Is there any opinion about Mollenhauer bassoons in general? Anything I should look for (or look to avoid)? Is the asking price completely ridiculous, or ballpark reasonable, or will it depend on which model? And is there any way to find out based on the serial number which model it is?

Thanks to the forum in advance for any advice!

Mollenhauer are only really known for their contra-bassoons these days which are well thought of - being in the top 3 makes along with Heckel & Fox.

I have seen a few bassoons over the years mainly old ones & they give the impression of being well made & sound good when in good condition.
I don't know if they give model numbers. Because they are uncommon it is difficult to give a value. Also the condition will greatly affect the price.
You really need to get it evaluated by experienced bassoon technician for an opinion & also possibly a good player. Beware of asking players - most can only comment on it's current playability but will not have the knowledge to spot any potential problems like wood rot & mechanical problems which can be expensive to rectify.