A shout out to Retrofret for some of the content here that applies to this banjo. Fairbanks/Vega No. Special (?) Model 5 String Banjo (1916 or close), made in Boston, Mass., natural mahogany finish, laminated maple rim, mahogany neck with ebonized maple fingerboard, soft shell case included. There is no model number stamp hence the ?. The dowel is SN 35684 and the pot 35650. Manufactured only 34 SN numbers apart the pot and neck were made in very close proximity. Whether assembled with these two parts at the factory or later I cannot say. The neck to pot joint/fit is superb as is the dowel end to pot near the tailpiece. Other than the 34 SN number spread this banjo looks, feels and plays original.

The Special is just about Vega's simplest Fairbanks-branded 5 string banjo, unassuming to look at but still built to the Company's highest standards of workmanship. Fairbanks were generally considered the world's premier banjo brand at the time, so even their basic instruments were professional quality. The plain maple rim carries a light mahogany stain, the neck is natural mahogany capped with a fingerboard made of ebonized maple with a simple dot inlay. The headstock face is a plain ebonized wood with no inlay and the hardware is high grade but basic, with a thin 3/8" rim carrying no elaborate tone ring. Light fret wear but no way near a playing issue. The sound is still superb, sweeter than many banjos with a bit less volume and over-ring than the more complex Vega models but plenty of clarity and punch. A fine-quality authentic 1920's old-time and frailing banjo, ready for then next 100 years.
 

10 3/4 in. diameter head, and 2 1/2 in. (6.4 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 26 in. (660 mm.). Width of nut is 1 1/4 in. (32 mm.). This old Fairbanks is in nice original condition overall. All hardware is original with the exception of the vintage geared tuning pegs, 5th string peg included. That is a real plus for hassle free tuning. Fitted out with an older Remo plastic head; an excellent frailer and the perfect definition on an "Old time" banjo. Excellent - Condition. Shipped USPS Priority Insured. Return policy- 3-Day trial period. That’s the way I like to shop. Buyer pays return shipping. Please feel free to send questions and photo requests. Thanks for looking. Corey