Rare Provenance: McKnight #004 – The Original Website Demo Instrument"
For the serious collector or player, I am offering a Moses McKnight #004. As one of the first handful of banjos ever produced by Moses, this instrument carries a unique historical significance: it was the specific banjo featured on the original McKnight website to launch the brand. To find a 'single-digit' build in this condition—complete with the original 2003 audio demos of Moses playing it—is a rare occurrence in the secondary market. This is a foundational piece of Texas lutherie. Built in July 2003 by Moses McKnight (Alvarado, TX), this instrument was the primary demonstration banjo featured on the original McKnight website. For those seeking the "Pre-War" sound without the price tag, this build features the highly coveted JLS #12 Bell Bronze tone ring paired with a custom Hard Maple Block Rim. This specific combination is known for a dry, woody "bark," immediate note decay, and exceptional clarity up the neck.
The Details
• Tone Ring: JLS #12 Bell Bronze (The "gold standard" for many builders).
• Rim: Custom Hard Maple Block Rim (enhanced structural stability and resonance).
• Neck & Resonator: Select Mahogany with a high-gloss nitro finish.
• Fretboard: Dark Ebony with crisp Hearts & Flowers MOP inlays.
• Hardware: Professional grade one-piece flange; Presto-style tailpiece.
• Playability: Professionally maintained; spikes installed at the 7th, 9th, and 10th frets.
• Case: Deering Hard-shell Case.
Provenance & Audio
This isn't just "another banjo"—it is a piece of McKnight history. I have preserved the original documentation and audio files from 2003. Included in this sale is access to the digital folder containing:
1. The Original 2003 Website Listing (archived as a PDF). This was the instrument Moses used to showcase his craftsmanship to the world on his debut website. Please note the original price in 2003 was $1795 but is now listed for $2950 on the Banjo Hangout website.
2. 3 Audio Demos of the late Moses McKnight playing this exact banjo (Blackberry Blossom, Old Home Place, and Old Time Religion).
Listen to it here: Click the "URL for more info" link here to access the Google Drive folder containing the audio demos and original listing document.
AUDIO & PROVENANCE FILES HERE: drive.google.com/drive/folders...rive_link
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