This is an excellent 5 string zither banjo with the great tone and sustain typical of zither banjos.  The banjo was made by William E. Temlett of London and is labelled as the Apollo model Number 3.   Temlett started making this Apollo model in 1896 and continued making it until his death in 1923.  I don't know where in this time frame this particular banjo sits.  There is a serial number 1082 on the reverse which may help but I haven't been able to find any information on this  The identification of maker and model can be seen inscribed on the heel of the instrument. A further logo can be seen on the reverse of the peg head showing that it was sold by Horsburgh and Baliol, a music shop in Newcastle.

Although not new it's in very good condition with no significant damage, structurally or cosmetically, that I can see and the wood and metal parts are shiny and bright. My string gauge tells me that string action is 2.75mm at the 12th fret so it's a nice instrument to play.  

Tuners are attractive and are all working well and strings are new light grade suitable for zither banjos.  The vellum is nice and tight, contributing to the good tone.  There is minor fret wear and wear to the finger board but nothing to interfere with the playing of the instrument.   The mother of pearl inlay on the finger board is a delight.

The banjo is 90.5cm long.  Its a 27cm pot and the scale length is 33cm from top nut to 12th fret.  At the top nut the neck width is 3.7cm.  Tuners are working well and the neck is straight.

The banjo will come in what might well be its original case.   It's in surprisingly good condition given it's age but is clearly not new and some might think it a bit shabby. Both clasps and the lock are working (although there is no key) and the handle is also present.  I think it compliments what is really a very old instrument and I would certainly use it.

Everything will be carefully boxed for posting.

Please see my other instruments on sale this week.