ca 1916 Rettberg & Lange Orpheum # 1 Tenor Banjo

ca 1916 Rettberg & Lange Orpheum #1 Tenor Banjo

This is a nice example of the legendary R&L Orpheum #1 banjo. This collectors item includes the Rettberg & Lange manufacturers tag as well as a resellers tag from NYC dealer Charles Bruno. The Orpheum includes the famous patented (Farmer 724833) tone ring which was a staple of R&L banjos. This birds eye maple classic also features the original hardware, vintage tuners, a vintage Grover Non-Tip bridge, a new calf skin head, new John Pearse strings, a valuable Presto tailpiece, and a sturdy hardshell case (marked with the imprimatur of Four Banjoliers). The serial number (2403) places this banjo in the year 1916 (according to the BHO R&L hypothetical serial number compilation). There is some fingerboard wear on the first 3 positions.

SPECS:

Rim 11 inch

scale 21 inch

Nut 1 3/16 inch

Serial # 2403

Also - it is entirely possible that this banjo belonged to one of the Four Banjoliers who formed the core of the (Pasquale) Troise and His Banjoliers orchestra. Troise was a staple on BBC broadcasts beginning in the 1930's.

To learn more about Four Banjoliers, do an AI assisted search on "who were the Four Banjoliers" .

Note to potential Buyer: This is a vintage / antique musical instrument. If your experience has been limited to modern era instruments, you may notice a difference in certain characteristics by comparison. Also, as this instrument is 100+ years old, you may notice slight imperfections that have been well earned during its journey through the years.