1920s Wm. L. Lange Paramount Style C Tenor Banjo

For sale is an outstanding and highly original circa mid-1920s Wm. L. Lange Paramount Style C tenor banjo – a true Jazz Age professional instrument in remarkable time-capsule condition. This complete outfit includes the original vintage hard shell case (black tolex-covered with deep blue/purple velvet lining, compartmented neck rest, functional latches and typical period wear).

The case holds a fantastic collection of period accessories:

•  Multiple packs of vintage Black Diamond tenor banjo strings (National Musical String Co., silver-plated steel loop-end – classic 1920s–1930s packs

•  Original-style maple/ebony bridge

•  Paramount mute and tuning wrenches

•  Extra thumb screws/buttons

•  Handwritten tuning/setup note

Most importantly, the banjo retains its original Joseph Rogers calfskin head – a rare survivor clearly marked “Joseph Rogers” in period handwriting on the inside of the head. Joseph Rogers (of Sheffield, England) was the premier supplier of high-quality calfskin heads to top American makers in the 1920s, and these heads are renowned for their warm, responsive tone. This one is still fully intact, tensioned, and playable after nearly 100 years, with only honest age patina and no tears or major damage.

This example features the classic Style C appointments: elaborate engraved mother-of-pearl peghead inlay with floral motifs, flying bird motif pearl inlays on the ebony fingerboard, carved heel, and multi-laminate neck with colorful wood strips (including red and green laminates). The resonator has a perforated flange typical of the era.

Specifications:

•  Type: 4-string tenor banjo (19 frets, ideal for Irish traditional, jazz/dixieland, or vintage styles)

•  Scale length: Approximately 22-23 inches (standard 19-fret tenor)

•  Head diameter: 11 inches (original Joseph Rogers calfskin head – marked “Joseph Rogers”, intact and playable; highly sought-after for authentic vintage tone)

•  Rim: Multi-ply maple/mahogany with archtop tone ring

•  Neck: Multi-laminate mahogany with center strips in contrasting woods (maple, colored laminates), carved heel, ebony fingerboard with engraved flying bird pearl inlays

•  Resonator: Mahogany with marquetry trim and perforated nickel-plated flange

•  Hardware: Nickel-plated, including original-style Paramount armrest, tailpiece, and tension hoop; geared tuners functional

•  Finish: Natural mahogany with typical vintage checking and playwear

•  Serial/Stamping: patent badge inside rim; consistent with mid-1920s production

•  Condition: Excellent original vintage player-grade condition. Expected playwear (scratches, plating patina, aged head), but structurally sound – no visible cracks, repairs, or major issues. Neck straight, action playable, frets show light wear. All parts appear original except possible minor period replacements. A small piece of the inlay around the resonator head is missing and a small section was re-glued that was lifting (shown in pictures)

This banjo delivers the classic Paramount punch with the warm, rich, authentic tone that only a genuine 1920s Joseph Rogers calfskin head can provide. The originality of the head, case, and accessories makes this a standout collector-grade example.

A light professional setup (using the included vintage strings, bridge adjustment, etc.) will bring it to full potential, but it’s fully playable and enjoyable right now.

Ships safely in the original case (well-packed). Priced accordingly – serious offers welcome.

More photos available on request. A fantastic piece of banjo history!