Early-1920s FAIRBANKS - VEGA Style-R Whyte Laydie tenor banjo with 17-fret neck, approx. 20" scale, and 10-3/4" diameter head.
It features a pearl-inlaid star headstock, ivoroid friction tuners, NO-KNOT tailpiece, and 28 hooks on a notched tension hoop.
As with all Whyte Laydie models, the interior of the rim is smooth and without visible fasteners. It is also lined with strips of tort. shell-colored celluloid binding.
The serial number 52353 is stamped on the rim and on the dowel stick, which I believe dates it to the early-1920's.
The dowel stamp reads: "FAIRBANKS BANJO MADE BY THE VEGA COMPANY BOSTON, MASS STYLE R"
Also stamped are three patent dates and the VEGA star logo.
The head measures 10-3/4" in diameter and is likely the original skin stamped: "Jos. B. Rogers Jr." on its underside. It appears to be intact and in good condition but I have never removed it or any of the hoops/rings to inspect further.
The string nut appears original and seems to be in good condition.
The bridge is stamped "Grover" and shows age.
There is a shim made of paper or cardboard between the end of the fingerboard and the tension hoop as indicated by arrows in the photos. Also note arrows indicating a small chip in the fingerboard on the treble side where it meets the hoop.
A few of the hooks have darkened, and there is minor playing wear on the back of the neck as shown.
It can be set up to work well as an open-back tenor, or as an Irish tenor with heavier gauge strings.
The banjo itself weighs 6-pounds 10-ounces.
It comes with what is likely its original hard case which shows wear and has areas where its back is detaching around the bottom.
It's in good overall condition for being 100 years old, but would certainly benefit from a proper set-up as it has been stored for many years.
PLEASE NOTE: I am not an expert on vintage banjos so it is very important that you ask any pertinent questions prior to bidding.
See my other current and upcoming listings for similar instruments and parts.
***READ CAREFULLY***
The photos serve as a significant percentage of the overall description, so please view them carefully and ask any questions prior to bidding, as this item is being sold absolutely as-is, as-shown/described, and returns are not accepted.