Vega Whyte Laydie Style R Model Tenor Banjo (1924), made in Boston, Mass., natural varnish finish, laminated maple rim and neck, ebony fingerboard, original black hard shell case.
 
Overall length is 31 1/2 in. (80 cm.), 11 7/8 in. (30.2 cm.) diameter head, and 2 3/4 in. (7 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 21 in. (533 mm.). Width of nut is 1 3/16 in. (30 mm.).

This is a very nice sounding and playing example of a Whyte Laydie short-neck tenor banjo, all original except for a slightly later tailpiece and head. There is general wear overall but no major damage or finish loss. The neck binding has been seamlessly replaced; there is general light wear overall, but no major alterations. It is set up with an older plastic head with the owner's name and address (it's from the 1960s and he's not there anymore!) neatly written on in small penciled letters. The Style R is an excellent Irish -- as it is currently set up -- or a fine early Jazz or ragtime banjo, with quite a powerful sound for any style. The large nearly 12" head imparts a deeper tone than most tenor banjos and this rim would also be a very attractive candidate for conversion to an old-time 5-string. Excellent - Condition.