Tenor Banjos
Bacon and Day Silver Bell Roy Smeck Stage Model
1920's. 19 fret, 23" scale, 11" rim. A highly unusual and exceptionally attractive Bacon & Day Roy Smeck Special tenor banjo, representing one of the more distinctive instruments to emerge from the golden age of American banjo manufacture. Produced in very limited numbers, the Roy Smeck Special combines the renowned craftsmanship of Bacon & Day with a level of decorative artistry seldom encountered, making it a particularly desirable instrument for collectors and discerning players. This example remains in very good original condition, retaining its original hardware and exhibiting the quality and attention to detail for which Bacon & Day became famous. Constructed from beautiful African Padauk (Vermilion), the banjo possesses a striking visual character, with the timber's rich colour and figure providing a dramatic backdrop to its elaborate decorative appointments. The fingerboard, peghead, and heel cap are finished in a stunning metallic gold, enhanced by intricate coloured engravings that set this instrument apart from virtually any contemporary tenor banjo. The result is an instrument of remarkable visual presence that draws admiration both on display and on stage. From a mechanical standpoint, the banjo is equally impressive. The neck is straight, the frets are excellent, lovely action on a shimmed neck. The original Silver-Bell tonering, Ottinger tailpiece, Grover tuners, and original hooks and nuts remain in place, preserving the instrument's authenticity and collectability. The nickel-plated hardware presents well overall, showing the expected signs of age on some of the hooks, a testament to the instrument's originality rather than restoration. Importantly, there are no breaks, repairs, or structural issues, allowing the next owner to enjoy this instrument with complete confidence. Few vintage tenor banjos combine such rarity, originality, visual impact, and playability. The Roy Smeck Special occupies a unique place within the Bacon & Day catalogue and remains a highly coveted instrument among collectors of fine American banjos. Equally suited to performance, collection, or investment, this is an opportunity to acquire a truly distinctive example from one of the most celebrated names in banjo history. HSC. £1800. Photos
Leedy Collegian
Offered for sale is a fine Leedy Collegian Tenor Banjo, a wonderfully playable example of one of the most underrated American tenor banjos of the Jazz Age. Constructed from mahogany and fitted with nickel-plated hardware, this is the desirable large-resonator version of the Collegian, offering greater projection and presence than the standard model while retaining the lively response and comfortable feel for which these instruments are known.
Featuring Leedy's distinctive top-tension construction, head adjustments can be made quickly and easily without removing the resonator, an innovative feature that helped set these banjos apart from many of their contemporaries. The instrument is fitted with a quality replacement tailpiece and is currently configured without an armrest.
The neck is set up with a comfortable low action, making it effortless to play across the fingerboard. Combined with excellent frets, the banjo delivers a smooth and responsive playing experience that will appeal to both seasoned performers and enthusiastic collectors. While not a heavyweight instrument, this Collegian should not be underestimated. It produces a remarkably full, punchy voice with impressive projection, excellent note definition, and plenty of volume when required. It has the kind of lively, responsive character that makes vintage tenor banjos so enjoyable to play. The Leedy name remains highly respected among vintage banjo enthusiasts, and instruments such as this demonstrate exactly why. Combining excellent playability, distinctive construction, and a vibrant, musical tone, this Collegian represents outstanding value for anyone seeking a quality vintage American tenor banjo.
To conclude. A lightweight, responsive, and highly enjoyable vintage tenor banjo that delivers far more volume and presence than its modest weight would suggest. HSC. £950. Photos
No Name Possibly Weymann
Offered for sale is a fascinating and unusually attractive 1930's no-name tenor banjo, believed by some to have possible connections to the Weymann tradition of banjo manufacture. While the instrument carries no maker's identification, it features a highly distinctive tone ring design that immediately invites comparison with the famous Bacon and Day Silver Bell. The tone ring is of an unusual inverted Silver Bell-style construction, identical to that found on an H.F. Meitz tenor banjo previously owned by myself. H.F. Meitz is widely thought to have had connections with Weymann, making the design and possible lineage of this instrument particularly intriguing.
Visually, the banjo is simply stunning. The metalwork, woodwork, and overall presentation have survived remarkably well, giving the instrument a level of visual appeal rarely encountered in anonymous instruments of the period. It has all the character and charm of a professionally built Jazz Age tenor banjo and stands out immediately from more commonplace examples. One of its most appealing features is the clever resonator construction. The resonator and flange remove together as a single unit, allowing the banjo to be quickly converted from resonator configuration to open-back. This versatility gives the player access to two distinctly different tonal personalities in one instrument.
The banjo does have a slight neck bow and twist, which should be noted for complete accuracy. However, outside of this issue, the remainder of the instrument presents in exceptionally attractive condition and offers a rare opportunity for the player, collector, or enthusiast who appreciates unusual vintage banjos and lesser-known American makers.
An unusual and characterful Jazz Age tenor banjo that offers considerably more interest than its lack of branding might suggest. To sum up. Whether viewed as a player's instrument, restoration candidate, or collector's conversation piece, this is a banjo that stands apart from the crowd and rewards closer inspection. HSC. £650. Photos
Paramount Art Craft
A superb example of the highly sought-after Paramount Art Craft tenor banjo, representing the finest traditions of American banjo craftsmanship from the golden age of the 1920s.
The Art Craft models were among Paramount's most distinctive and elegant instruments, combining exquisite materials with professional-grade performance. This example remains in excellent condition, retaining its original gold-plated hardware and displaying the refined appointments that make these banjos so desirable among collectors and players alike. Constructed from beautifully figured rosewood throughout the rim, neck, and resonator, the instrument possesses a depth of appearance and tonal richness rarely encountered. The elaborate carved heel showcases the exceptional craftsmanship associated with the Art Craft line, while the gold-plated metalwork provides a striking contrast to the warm rosewood finish. From a playing perspective, this banjo is every bit as impressive as its appearance suggests. The neck is perfectly straight and fitted with excellent frets, allowing for effortless playability and accurate intonation across the fingerboard. The archtop tone ring delivers the powerful projection, clarity, and crisp response that established Paramount as one of the premier professional banjo manufacturers of its era.
Tonally, the Art Craft combines remarkable volume and articulation with a warmth and complexity that sets it apart from many contemporary tenor banjos. Whether used for traditional jazz, dance-band repertoire, Irish tenor playing, or as a distinguished addition to a serious collection, this instrument performs at the highest level. Instruments of this quality and originality are becoming increasingly difficult to find. Combining outstanding playability, remarkable visual appeal, and historical significance, this Paramount Art Craft is a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most elegant and desirable tenor banjos of the Jazz Age. OHSC. £3500. Photos
Paramount Style A Tenor Banjo
1920's. 19 fret, 23" scale, 11 1/8" rim. A fine example of the iconic Paramount Style A tenor banjo, one of the most respected professional-grade instruments of the Jazz Age. Built during Paramount's golden era, the Style A combines elegant craftsmanship, superb playability, and the powerful, cutting tone that made these instruments a favourite among dance band and jazz musicians. This instrument remains in very good vintage condition, retaining its original nickel-plated hardware and exhibiting honest age-appropriate wear consistent with careful ownership. The maple construction provides excellent clarity and projection, while the original archtop tone ring delivers the bright, articulate voice and strong note separation for which Paramount banjos are renowned. The neck is straight, with comfortable action and excellent structural integrity. Frets show minimal wear and are in excellent condition, allowing the instrument to play cleanly across the fingerboard. The nickel plating remains attractive, contributing to the banjo's impressive visual presence. Tonally, the instrument has the crisp attack, volume, and responsiveness expected from a quality Paramount, making it equally suitable for traditional jazz, Irish tenor styles. HSC. Arriving soon.
Slingerland Maybell Style B
Professional-Grade Jazz Age Banjo with Excellent Restoration Potential
Offered for sale is a Slingerland Maybell Style B tenor banjo, a model from Slingerland's professional range and an excellent opportunity for the player, collector, or restoration enthusiast seeking a quality vintage American instrument.
Built with an attractive walnut neck and resonator and fitted with nickel-plated hardware, the Style B occupies a respected position within the Maybell line. Its standout feature is the substantial large tone ring, which provides the banjo with the strong projection, clarity, and cutting power that made these instruments popular during the golden age of the tenor banjo. This example retains a straight neck, always an important consideration in a vintage instrument, and the walnut construction gives it a warm, handsome appearance with plenty of character. The hardware presents well, and the instrument remains structurally sound. The banjo does require some work to return it to optimum playing condition and is priced accordingly. Specifically, it would benefit from, neck reset, new nut, fret dress or replacement. Once completed, the new owner will have a professional-quality vintage tenor banjo capable of delivering the lively response and projection for which the better Slingerland instruments are known. An increasingly hard-to-find professional Slingerland with excellent bones and significant potential. Whether you're looking for a rewarding restoration project or a quality vintage tenor to bring back to its former glory, this Style B represents an excellent opportunity to acquire a well-built Jazz Age banjo at an attractive price.
A solid and desirable vintage tenor banjo awaiting the final work needed to realise its full potential. Gig bag. £525 including postage to the UK and Europe. Being sold as-is with no returns. Photos
Vega Little Wonder
A Wonderful Player with Character, Charm, and Classic Vega Tone.
Offered for sale is a delightful 1928 Vega Little Wonder Tenor Banjo, an instrument that perfectly demonstrates why Vega remains one of the most respected names in vintage American banjos.
Finished in beautiful natural maple, this Little Wonder features the classic Vega combination of a 19-fret neck, 23" scale length, and 10-15/16" rim, providing the bright, responsive tone and effortless playability that have made these instruments favourites among tenor banjo players for generations.
The banjo is fitted with a 4-piece flange, 2-piece resonator, Presto tailpiece, and quality Gotoh tuners, all contributing to a reliable and highly playable instrument. The frets remain in excellent condition, allowing for smooth and accurate playing throughout the fingerboard.
What makes this particular Vega especially appealing is its individuality. Over the years, a number of personal touches have been added, creating a banjo with genuine character and a story of its own. The peghead has been adorned with rhinestones, while the reverse carries the date "1905" neatly carved into the wood. Unusual custom position markers have been added to the fingerboard, giving the instrument a distinctive appearance unlike any other Little Wonder you're likely to encounter.
Perhaps most notable is the feel of the neck. At some point in its life, the finish on the rear of the neck was carefully removed and the wood expertly smoothed from peghead to heel. The result is an exceptionally comfortable playing surface that feels fast, silky, and effortlessly natural in the hand.
Most importantly, this is a banjo that delivers where it matters most. It plays beautifully and sounds amazing, offering the clear, lively, and remarkably musical voice that has long made the Little Wonder one of Vega's most enduring designs. This is not a museum-piece Little Wonder, but rather a wonderfully individual vintage Vega that has been personalised during its lifetime and developed into an exceptional player's instrument. Full of character, highly playable, and blessed with a superb voice, it is a banjo that invites you to pick it up and keep playing.
A charming and distinctive Jazz Age Vega with all the tone, personality, and playability that vintage banjo enthusiasts love. £1000. Photos
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Vega Professional
Circa 1962 • Yellow-Label Era • Tubaphone Tone Ring • Superb Playability
Offered for sale is an excellent Vega Professional Tenor Banjo, dating from around 1962 and representing the later yellow-label incarnation of Vega's celebrated Vegaphone tradition. Combining classic Tubaphone performance with modern refinements such as an adjustable truss rod, this is a wonderfully playable vintage tenor from one of America's most respected banjo makers. Built with a maple rim, resonator, and neck, the instrument features the classic 19-fret neck, 23" scale length, and 10-15/16" rim configuration favoured by professional tenor players for generations. At its heart is Vega's legendary Tubaphone tone ring, renowned for its remarkable clarity, projection, sustain, and tonal balance. Whether played for traditional jazz, Irish tenor styles, or contemporary acoustic music, this banjo delivers the responsive, articulate voice that has made Tubaphone-equipped Vegas so highly regarded.
The neck incorporates an adjustable truss rod, a welcome feature not found on many earlier Vega models. The neck itself is arrow straight, with excellent frets and an exceptionally comfortable setup that provides a soft, effortless action throughout the fingerboard. Visually, the instrument is particularly attractive, finished in a rich sunburst lacquer that beautifully highlights the maple construction. The ebony fingerboard is adorned with elegant block and dot pearl inlays, adding a touch of understated sophistication. The banjo has been fitted with modern tuners and a modern tailpiece, providing excellent reliability while preserving its vintage character. Cosmetically, the instrument shows only honest signs of age, including some light wear and finish chipping, together with tarnish and wear to areas of the nickel plating. These minor blemishes do little to detract from what remains a remarkably handsome and highly musical vintage Vega. This Vega Professional captures everything players love about the later Boston-made instruments: classic Tubaphone tone, outstanding playability, dependable construction, and timeless styling. Equally suitable as a working musician's instrument or as a desirable addition to a vintage banjo collection, it is a fine example of Vega's enduring craftsmanship. A responsive, great-sounding vintage tenor banjo that delivers all the power, clarity, and musicality expected from a professional-grade Vega. HSC. £1350 Photos.
Vega Whyte Laydie Style R Open Back
Offered for sale is a fine Vega Whyte Laydie Style R Open Back Tenor Banjo, a wonderful example of one of Vega's most respected and enduring designs. Combining elegant maple construction, classic Whyte Laydie tone, and exceptional playability, this instrument is equally suited to jazz, traditional music, and tenor banjo enthusiasts seeking a genuine period instrument. Constructed from maple and fitted with nickel-plated hardware, this Style R possesses all the tonal clarity, warmth, and responsiveness for which the Whyte Laydie name has been celebrated for generations. The hardware remains original, with the hooks and nuts displaying an attractive age-earned patina consistent with a well-preserved vintage instrument. This banjo features a 17-fret tenor neck, 21" scale length, and a substantial 11-13/16" rim, producing a rich, full voice with excellent projection and remarkable note definition. The instrument has been upgraded with quality Gotoh tuners, ensuring smooth and reliable tuning stability, while the traditional finger-style tailpiece complements its period character. The neck has been shimmed to achieve an exceptionally comfortable setup, resulting in a beautifully soft, low action that makes the instrument effortless to play throughout the fingerboard. Importantly, the banjo is free from any cracks, breaks, repairs, or structural issues.
Tonally, this Whyte Laydie delivers the characteristic combination of sweetness, sustain, and projection that has made these instruments a favourite among players for over a century. Responsive, lively, and wonderfully balanced, it is a banjo that rewards both delicate playing and a more assertive attack. A highly musical and increasingly desirable vintage Vega tenor banjo, offering outstanding playability, classic Whyte Laydie tone, and all the charm and character of a genuine early American instrument. A superb player's banjo and an excellent opportunity to acquire a beautifully set-up example of one of Vega's most iconic tenor banjo designs. £1600. Photos
Vega Whyte Laydie Style R
Offered for sale is a superb 1924 Vega Whyte Laydie Style R Tenor Banjo, an unusually fine and increasingly hard-to-find example of one of Vega's most celebrated Jazz Age instruments. Featuring a 17-fret neck, 21" scale length, and substantial 11-13/16" rim, this banjo embodies the craftsmanship and tonal sophistication that established Vega as one of America's premier banjo makers. Constructed from beautifully aged maple and fitted with nickel-plated hardware, it delivers the clear, vibrant response and musical character for which the Whyte Laydie name remains legendary. What makes this instrument particularly desirable is its rare resonator configuration, incorporating a classic 30-piece flange and two-piece resonator. Examples of the Style R tenor fitted in this manner are encountered far less frequently than their open-back counterparts, offering the player increased projection and a distinctive tonal presence while retaining the refined character of the Whyte Laydie design. The banjo remains in beautiful condition, with a perfectly straight neck and excellent frets, making it a joy to play throughout the fingerboard. It has been upgraded with quality Schaller tuners for precise and dependable tuning stability, while the fitted Prucha tailpiece offers excellent performance and adjustability. Tonally, this Whyte Laydie possesses all the attributes that have made these instruments favourites among discerning musicians for over a century: superb clarity, remarkable note separation, impressive volume, and a sweetness of tone that rewards both light and vigorous playing styles. A rare opportunity to acquire an exceptionally well-preserved and highly playable Whyte Laydie Style R tenor, combining Vega's renowned craftsmanship with a sought-after factory resonator configuration. Equally suited to the serious player, collector, or enthusiast of classic American banjos, this is a distinguished instrument from the golden age of banjo manufacture. HSC. £1800. Photos
Vegaphone Soloist
Offered for sale is an exceptional 1926 Vegaphone Soloist Tenor Banjo, a model widely regarded as one of the finest professional tenor banjos produced during the golden age of American banjo manufacture. Combining Vega's legendary Tubaphone tonering system with the refined appointments of the Soloist line, this instrument offers outstanding musical performance together with remarkable visual appeal. Constructed from beautifully aged maple, this Vegaphone Soloist features the classic 10-15/16" rim, 19-fret neck, and 23" scale length, delivering the power, clarity, and responsiveness that made the Vegaphone the preferred choice of countless professional musicians during the 1920s and 1930s. The banjo retains its distinctive Soloist configuration of gold and nickel-plated hardware, creating an elegant contrast that immediately sets it apart from standard production models. The metalwork is complemented by a superbly preserved engraved Ottinger tailpiece, with the engraving remaining crisp and beautifully defined. Likewise, the fingerboard engraving is exceptionally well preserved, a testament to the care this banjo has received throughout its life. At its heart is Vega's celebrated Tubaphone tone ring, renowned for its remarkable projection, balance, and sustain. The result is a banjo with a rich, vibrant voice, exceptional note separation, and the versatility to excel in traditional jazz, dance band repertoire, Irish tenor styles, and contemporary performance settings. Playability is equally impressive. The shimmed neck provided a wonderfully comfortable setup. Combined with lovely frets and a precisely adjusted action, the instrument offers effortless playability across the entire fingerboard. The original Planet tuners provide smooth and reliable stability while maintaining the banjo's period aesthetic. A highly desirable and increasingly scarce professional-grade Vega, this Soloist represents the pinnacle of Jazz Age banjo craftsmanship. Combining superb originality, exceptional condition, and outstanding musical performance, it is equally suited to the serious player, collector, or enthusiast seeking one of the finest tenor banjos of the period. An elegant, powerful, and remarkably well-preserved example of a classic Vega Soloist from the height of American banjo making.HSC. £1500
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Washburn Ultra Deluxe
A Rare Masterpiece from Lyon & Healy's Golden Era.
Offered for sale is an exceptionally rare Washburn Ultra Deluxe Tenor Banjo, one of the most lavish and impressive instruments produced by the legendary Lyon & Healy company during the great age of American banjo manufacture.
Designed to compete with the finest professional banjos of its day, the Ultra Deluxe combines extraordinary craftsmanship, premium materials, and stunning visual appointments in a way few instruments can equal. Built from beautiful mahogany and adorned with gold-plated, engraved hardware, this banjo immediately conveys the elegance and prestige associated with Washburn's highest-grade models. The elaborate carved heel is a work of art in its own right, reflecting the remarkable hand craftsmanship that distinguished these top-tier instruments. Equally impressive is the ebony fingerboard, adorned with spectacular pearl inlays that transform the neck into a showcase of Jazz Age artistry. At the heart of the instrument is Washburn's distinctive doughnut-style tone ring, a design prized for its rich tonal character, excellent projection, and refined musical response. The result is a banjo with a powerful yet sophisticated voice, capable of delivering exceptional clarity, warmth, and note definition across the entire range of the instrument. Visually, the Ultra Deluxe stands among the most attractive tenor banjos of its era. The combination of richly figured mahogany, glowing gold plating, intricate engraving, and outstanding pearl work creates an instrument that commands attention both on stage and in a collection. Rarely encountered and highly desirable, the Washburn Ultra Deluxe represents the pinnacle of Lyon & Healy's banjo-making artistry. Equally appealing to the serious player, collector, and connoisseur of fine vintage instruments, it offers a combination of beauty, rarity, and tonal excellence that few period banjos can match. A truly remarkable American tenor banjo and a rare opportunity to acquire one of Washburn's most elegant and prestigious creations. HSC. £1000. Photos