5 String Banjo English c1910 This is an English Zither Banjo made between 1900 and 1920. It has a thick ebony (blackwood) fretboard which extends to the head. The original tuning pegs are made of bone (whale probably) as is the original nut (the strings pass over this near the tuners). There are even brass strengtheners to give positive neck adjustment.   This has definitely been used professionally due to the wear in the blackwood on the first and second frets, it has been well cared for as usually the tuning pegs and nut are replacements. The neck is straight, there are no warps or bends, probably due to the quality of manufacture and the ebony.   It has an even tone with quite a nice ring, as can be heard. This was not meant to play bluegrass, it was probably used in a big band and later for frailing or clawhammer.   There is only one evident fault, there is a crack in the veneer where the neck joins the resonator, be assured, this crack is only in the veneer, it does not go through the shell.   It has been stripped and cleaned, it has the original shellac finish which is still in excellent condition. The original slide in hard case is missing the rear closing flap, it may be possible to repair it. I include a vintage book - Bluegrass Banjo by Peter Wernick (He played Duelling Banjos in the film), the book includes its original 33 rpm vinyl teaching disk. There are many lessons online - Click here to see one   INTERNATIONAL BUYERS - CHECK POSTAGE BEFORE MAKING AN OFFER    Length 88cm, Width 26cm, Depth 6.0cm, Weight 3kg    Please Look At My Other Listings We describe our items as accurately as possible and take extreme close-up photos in most cases. We sell a lot of jewellery and as such we cannot be expected to examine every millimetre of the item with a x10 loop. Please ask as many questions as you wish, to ensure you buy the item that you desire without any disappointment. PLEASE READ ADDITIONAL CHECKOUT INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE PAYING We also take credit & debit cards, please ask for details.