Here’s a student-grade Fairbanks/Vega tenor banjo from 1919, made in Boston, Mass., with typical Vega quality, just no bling. Open back. Natural mahogany finish, Little Wonder tone ring, mahogany neck with ebonized fretboard, grooved tension hoop, black OHSC.
     Serial number is 42149. I researched this model a bit, and it’s usually described as having 17 frets and 26 brackets. This one, for whatever reason, has 16 frets and 28 brackets. Overall length is 30.75 in. (78.1 cm), 10,94 in. (27.8 cm) diameter head, and 2.5 in. (6.4 cm) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 19.75 in. (502 mm). Width of nut is 1.19 in. (30 mm).
     This banjo has been professionally restored and set up, and is ready to get back to making music. Original friction pegs have been replaced with modern geared ones. The head is a replacement. I don’t know if the bridge is original. Some of the hooks are oxidized and some aren’t, so they might include some replacements—but they all match. The Geib hardshell case is functional and the latches work, but it has heavy wear and some tape repairs. Pleasant sounding with plenty of projection.
     See more photos, call 425/772-0231, or for more information. 48-hour approval period. $750 plus shipping.