CURRENTLY LISTED ON EBAY. This is a ca. 1887 Fairbanks and Cole Imperial 5-string Banjo. The Imperial was near the top of their line, and this one is in gorgeous playing condition. It has a half-spun 12 in. rim, with a new skin head, all original hardware (including the very cool square, ball-end nuts) and the original ivory patented tailpiece. The dowel and rim serial number is 782x. The neck is in great condition, but nearly all of the fret board inlays have been carefully and skillfully replaced; the peg head inlays are original. Two of the tuners, and the 5th peg are original engraved ivory, but two pegs are plain white bone replacements. Strung with Nylgut, it is a delight to play. No case. $1450. plus exact shipping tbd.
