S. S. Stewart "Champion" No. 3, 5-string banjo, S/N 16379, Circa 1895
This beautiful banjo was made by Stewart toward the end of the period in which his banjos dominated the national scene, and it is in near-mint condition. Note the similarity of the fingerboard inlays to my Stewart "Special Thoroughbred" No. 4. The marquetry on the inside of the rim and the heel carving are especially nice. To my knowledge, the hardware on this banjo is completely original, including the "Elite" tailpiece and the odd 4th string tuner.