Fairbanks/Vega Whyte Laydie Style R Conversion Model 5 String Banjo (1923), made in Boscawen, NH, serial # 52384, natural varnish finish, laminated maple neck and rim, ebony fingerboard, black hard shell case.
Overall length is 37 1/4 in. (94.6 cm.), 11 15/16 in. (30.3 cm.) diameter head, and 2 3/4 in. (7 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 banjo is a very nicely done Fairbanks/Vega 5-string conversion; the woodwork is of extremely high quality and the maple used for the neck has a lovely flame figure. The pearl cutting and engraving is very neat if perhaps not as artistic as the work of Vega's original artisans. The rim itself is a 1923 large-head Whyte Laydie, with the original hooks and nuts and Electric style tone ring. The tailpiece is a newer repro no-knot, and there is an added plain wire unplated armrest. The banjo is set up with a great-sounding original period Rodgers head, and the instrument has a wonderful tone; absolutely the classic old-time sound. Includes a new HSC, ready to gig! Excellent - Condition.
