George Washburn 5-string banjo, model 421, S/N 526, Circa 1892
This banjo was the fanciest regularly cataloged model in Lyon & Healy's 1892 Washburn instrument catalog, and it is a striking banjo. The beautifully engraved rim (much heavier than those of other banjos at the time) with its fancy "imperial" brackets is complemented by a neck and peghead ornamented with beautifully engraved pearl and copper wire. Slightly fancier banjos with carved heels could be special ordered.
