Details
We think of this Vega/Rickard banjo as the best of the 1920s combined with the best banjo craftsmanship from a century later. The banjo's shell (body) and attendant metal parts are from Vega, specifically a Whyte Laydie model plectrum (4-string), and even the calfskin head is from Vega. The neck was made by Rickard, one of our favorite contemporary banjo makers. The Rickard crew gave it the correct headstock shape and neck profile but those vintage touches are combined with an S scoop at the end of the fingerboard. The old skin head with its years of hand wear may not be for everyone, but a new head can be provided if the owner prefers. The tone of these old heads is hard to replicate, however, so we'd strongly recommend playing it before making that change. Comes with a new hardshell case.
Specs
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Fingerboard
Ebony, with Scoop
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Frets to body
19
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Neck material
Maple
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Nut width
1 1/4"
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Scale length
25 1/2"
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Total frets
17
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Tuners
Rickard 10:1 Cycloidal Tuners w/ Galalith Buttons
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Year
1924
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Diameter
10 15/16"
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Tone ring
Whyte Laydie
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Case type
Hardshell
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Serial number
75667
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SKU
VEGRICWHYLAY-75667
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UPC
141284