Bacon Professional FF Model 5 String Banjo, c. 1915, probably New York City, cherry stain varnish finish, black chipboard case.
Made for and sold by Fred Bacon of Forest Dale, Vermont, but built by Rettberg and Lange in New York, this is an interesting and attractive early Bacon instrument. The smaller rim and internal resonator give this banjo a crisp but not shrill sound with plenty of character.
Not particularly fancy, but like all banjos carrying the Bacon name, a first class instrument.
Overall length is 34 1/4 in. (87 cm.), 10 3/16 in. (25.9 cm.) diameter head, and 2 3/4 in. (7 cm.) deep. Scale length is 24 1/2 in. (622 mm.).
Well-preserved in good playing condition. Old (but not original) period Planet tuners added; fifth string peg shows signs of having been reseated. Original "Elite" tailpiece missing the central upper lug, but works fine.
Finish and plating has average wear; one noticeable scrape just above headstock inlay. Set up with a Remo head and steel strings, this is a nice frailer with a well-defined sound. Excellent Condition.
