This is an early Cole's Eclipse banjo from ca.1891. The serial number 1724 is stamped inside the rim. It has a 10 3/8" rim with 28 brackets. One bracket shoe (reproduction) and several hooks appear to be vintage replacements. All other hardware is original including the Elite tailpiece, the Eclipse tone ring, dowel stick adjuster, and neck brace. It currently has a plastic head on it. The ball ends of the nuts are brassed and the black finish on the bottom edge of the rim is well worn. The neck is 27" scale and is in great condition. The Man-in-the-Moon is one of the most asthetically pleasing designs ever! I was told when I purchased this banjo that the headstock moon inlay was a replacement (by Patterson), and the peghead face only was refinished at that time. The fretboard inlays are in excellent shape, barely worn. It has Grover Champion tuners, with beautiful amber catalin buttons. I was told that they were original, I do not know. They look awesome anyway! The neck is remarkably straight, moderate fret wear at the first few frets. Light steel strings and a 1/2 inch vintage bridge. String height at the 12th fret is 5/32". This banjo plays well and sounds great. I have put a MP3 sound clip of it on my BHO homepage. It comes with a used chipboard case. $2295. plus exact shipping and insurance to be determined. I will discount the purchase price by 3% if you are willing to pay with a USPS MO or Cashiers check.
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