Unmarked top-tension 5-string banjo Circa 1880
Aside from the early Teed and Dobson resonator banjos, this is the earliest top-tension banjo that I have encountered. It is very well made, with a nickel or silver plated rolled brass rim with elegant rim hardware. The neck is made of mahogany with an ebony fingerboard and a deep frailing scoop where it meets the rim. The peghead is a bit reminiscent of Cubley banjos. The neck profiling at the 5th string peg is also quite elegant, as is the thick walnut heel cap. Simple pearl inlays add to the charm of this nice banjo.
