5 String Banjo, labeled C. Bruno & Son, c. 1915, probably New York City, natural finish, spunover rim, maple neck with ebonized fingerboard, original canvas case.
Overall length is 36 1/4 in. (92.1 cm.), 10 7/8 in. (27.6 cm.) diameter head, and 2 3/8 in. (6 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 26 in. (660 mm.). Width of nut is 1 1/4 in. (32 mm.). This is a fairly simple but very nice playing banjo; almost certainly the product of New York's Rettberg & Lange for C. Bruno & Co. It appears original except for possibly the neck securing hardware, which is in a period style but looks more recent. This banjo does have an interesting re-inforcing strap over the rim between the dowel and heel that is original, basically a much-simplified version of the patented S.S. Stewart neck brace. Some wear overall but no major damage or repair. Set up with a very old skin head (solid if somewhat dirty looking) and newer bridge, with no tone ring to speak of the sound is fairly dark and sweet and it is an agreeable banjo for solo playing or Old-Time music. Excellent - Condition.
