SS Stewart Banjo c.1905

Made in Philadelphia, Sam Stewart’s banjos were popular throughout the USA from the 1880s onwards.  Made around 1910, this ‘Monogram’ open-back 5-string with 11” body,  is an excellent example.  A “Grade 2” model made without the wooden ‘resonator’ back to the body, the 24 tensioners and tensioning nuts are all original and functional.  The cherry wood neck, ebony fretboard, tuners and bridge are all in excellent condition along with the 22 original bar frets. The back of the headstock features the ‘S&B – Monogram’ stamp, introduced when a Mr Bauer joined the company following the death of Sam Stewart in 1898.  Lightweight at 1.85kg (4.1lbs) this is a well-preserved and very playable vintage banjo from one of America’s historic banjo makers. It comes with its original – but very worn – soft case.