1923 VEGA TUBAPHONE NO.9 5-STRING BANJO

We are thrilled to offer you this absolute top-of-the-line model from the Vega Company in Boston, Massachusetts, USA! This Vega Tubaphone No. 9 is one of the few original examples currently existing in Europe! With serial number 56879 and dating from 1923, this instrument is a highly sought-after collector’s item—and thanks to its excellent condition, it’s a fantastic player as well!

The three-piece maple neck is beautifully flamed and perfectly straight. The wonderful mother-of-pearl inlays are by Icilio Consalvi. The carving on the heel is a beautiful masterpiece. The tuners are modern Grover Two Band Tuners; a Stewmac tuner was used for the 5th string. Despite slight nicks, the original frets are very playable and fully functional. There is a slightly repaired binding damage at the 5th fret, as well as 3 small filled holes from a Shubb capo starting at the 5th fret.

The serial number is stamped on the inside of the 11" rim. The hardware, including the Kershner Unique tailpiece, is original. There are a few small holes on the body rim, likely from a resonator attachment. The dowel stick has several distinctive features: in addition to a few filled holes, the serial number is partially stamped over. Furthermore, the “Style X” stamping is unusual, suggesting that the dowel stick comes from a Style X No. 9 or was used in one at some point.

Length 94.5 cm, scale length 68.5 cm, head diameter 28 cm, nut width 31 mm

The instrument plays beautifully with a low string action. The banjo currently has steel strings. It comes with a modern, used case.

A spectacular instrument for serious players and collectors!

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

Testing and collecting in the Hamburg / Luebeck area, Germany