I forgot to mention that there are three basic types of harmonica.
1. Diatonic - This has one row of 10 holes and is easiest to learn on.
http://www.themusicroom-online.co.uk/images/me isterklasse.jpg
2. Tremolo - This has 2 rows of holes one above the other. Harder to play for a beginner for sonme techniques.
http://images.virtualvillage.com/009000-105/00 1.jpg
3. Chromatic.- Very difficult to master and best avoided as a first instrument. They have a button on the end usually.
http://img.quamut.com/chart/941/02_chromatic_h armonica.jpg
I suggest you go for No1 - The diatonic.
The local busker is very nice. But I'll stick with my harmonica neck brace. You wouldn't get me putting parcel tape on my guitar fro love or money. Sounds like he has a tremolo harmonica. Very nice.