1909 A.C. Fairbanks (Vega) Tu-Ba-Phone #3

Matching rim and dowel stick serial numbers date this incredible banjo to 1909 which is the first year of production for the Tu-Ba-Phone model. The dowel stick has the A.C. Fairbanks plate with Tu-Ba-Phone stamped. All original hardware. Synthetic head. Gorgeous headstock Flower Pot inlay. Beautiful hand-carved neck heel with Star decoration.

Sets up well with easy playability and loud presence. Great in jams. Why not go to your next jam armed with the beauty from 1909? Comes with a newer hard shell case for safe transport and protection.

If you're interested in purchasing this historic banjo, please feel free to contact us at the Shop and we'll do our best to answer any questions you may have.

ABOUT A.C. FAIRBANKS and VEGA:

During 1880-1890 Fairbanks joined with William A. Cole, a successful performer and teacher, and produced approximately 9000 banjos as Fairbanks & Cole. They split in 1890 and Fairbanks advertised his new company as "The Only Successors of Fairbanks & Cole."

The A.C. Fairbanks Company was purchased in 1903-04 by the Vega Company. Vega continued to mark their banjos "A.C. Fairbanks" until the middle teens.

SPECS:

Headstock with Elaborate Flower Pot Inlay

Newer Geared Tuners

1 1/4" Bone Nut

Mahogany Neck with 28" Scale Length

Hand-Carved Heel with Star

Neck Depth .97" at First Fret and 1.08" at Twelfth Fret

22 Small Frets in Excellent Condition

Bound Ebony Fingerboard with Decorative Inlays and Flat Radius

Maple and Ebony Bridge with No-Knot Tailpiece

11 1/2" Rim with Bracket Band and Tubaphone Tone Ring

Weight 6 lb 14 oz

Newer Hard Shell Case

Serial Number 25677