1880s Dobson Victor Elegant 5-String Banjo

So cool to have – this incredibly well-preserved Dobson Victor banjo from the 1880s is of interest to players and collectors alike.

Thanks to its barely warped neck (most instruments from the pre-1900 era usually have warped necks), the banjo is still excellent to play. The modern, geared violin-style Wittner tuners make tuning easy and look wonderfully historic (the 5th string can also be converted to a Wittner violin peg on request). Currently equipped with a set of light gauge Nylgut strings and a minstrel bridge, this banjo is perfect for fingerstyle classic, but also suitable for clawhammer and old-time styles.

Collectors will be delighted with the condition of the banjo—all parts except the tuners, head, bridge, saddle, and frets are original. In the attached page from George C. Dobson's 1886 instrument catalog, the banjo can be clearly identified as a Victor Elegant model. The catalog description also includes the following information:

Rosewood Inlaid Edge Rim, 11 Inch, Patent Metal Edge under Head, Grooved Hoop, 28 Nickel Excelsior Brackets, Polished Walnut Neck, Ebony Fingerboard, Metal Frets, Fancy Pearl Inlaid Scroll Head

L. 89.5 cm, scale length 64 cm, nut width 33 mm

In addition to the Victor label, the following information is stamped on the dowel stick:

Geo. C. Dobson 294 Shawmut Ave Boston, Mass.

Trademark Victor Pat.d Mar. 4.1884

225 XX SPECIAL

Of course, such a historic instrument shows signs of age and wear, but these are minimal on this banjo. The fretboard has been played on quite a bit, but the frets have been replaced. A small corner of the fretboard is missing towards the body. There are minor scratches and scuffs. The dowel stick at the end of the body appears to have been moved slightly towards the skin at some point.

An absolute must-have for all fans of the Classic Era, which is extremely rare on the European market and cannot be found in this quality! A modern case for this instrument can be purchased on request.