1900s CLASSIC ENGLISH 7(5)-STRING BANJO

This English banjo from the Classic era is a truly special piece. Unlike standard 7-string banjos with two extra bass strings, this instrument can be played like a 5-string banjo, as the low D and G strings are doubled and played an octave apart, respectively. This creates a distinctive, resonant sound that makes this instrument one of a kind.

The original English Presentation Banjo, crafted around 1900, was restored, enhanced, and modified by the gifted German craftsman Peter Brandstätter from Nuremberg. Many of the metal parts, tuners, and inlays are Peter’s handiwork, including the Duke of Windsor coat of arms in the scoop.

Length 96 cm, scale length 69.5 cm, head diameter 12", nut width 35 mm

Set up with Aquila All Nylgut strings and a 12" natural skin, perfect for classic banjo or minstrel styles. Beautiful engravings on the body. The heel features an inlay with Peter Brandstätter’s initials. The dowel stick bears the brand stamp “D. FOREST. AGENT. BRISTOL.,” indicating the instrument’s origin. The tuning pegs on the peghead are offset. The 5th string has a friction peg that works very well. The armrest and the 5-string capo are also handmade.

The banjo shows minor signs of age and wear; the frets are like new. It comes ready to play in a modern Tweet case.

This instrument is used! Pictures are part of the description.

Testing and collecting in the Hamburg / Luebeck area, Germany

Worldwide shipping!