Ray Alden Custom "Comet" Model 5 String Banjo, c. 1990, made in New York, black finish, hard shell case.
A really unique 5-string built for our late friend, noted oldtime banjoist Ray Alden. This banjo is built with a deep rim equipped with a simple tone ring and a vaguely Vega-style neck with 16 frets. The elaborate pearl inlay appears inspired mainly by the the 1890's Cole's Eclipse, but goes off in a much more whimsical astrological vein. The fingerboard and headstock (front and rear) has multi-hued cut pearl designs featuring stars, comets, an owl, a telescope, a bat, a witch on a broomstick and our favorite-Mickey Mouse as the sorcerer's apprentice. All work is to a very high level, this is a lovely and unusual banjo with a very fine sound for old-time playing.
Overall length is 37 in. (94 cm.), 12 1/8 in. (30.8 cm.) diameter head, and 3 3/8 in. (8.6 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 26 in. (660 mm.). Width of nut is 1 5/16 in. (33 mm.). Almost no play wear, a bit of clouding to some plating but little sign of use. Comes with a vintage tenor case extended for 5-string, with some added mink (yes, mink) lining. Absolutely one of a kind! Excellent + Condition.
