Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Mark Bliss on September 28, 2011 at 12:26am

I cant tell you much specifically, except that it certainly looks like a pre-war or even roughly turn of the century specimin and it certainly would be worth more research before proceding.

Of note, is that it is an open back and fretless, and the head appears to be a skin. Unless it is someones attempt at a reproduction those clues alone would place it very much pre-mid century. I would be curious as to the neck reinforcement area. Is it a dowel rod? Could you post a picture of that area if possible?

Very cool and interesting either way, and I would suggest the idea of a minimal restoration to make it playable might be the best route! But be aware that only a "certain" banjer who is interested in an old time music style may be "into" an old time fretless banjo. (I would be, but most seem interested in the more "modern" sound and music.)

Thanks for sharing!

Mark