In my files, the PS-5 is seen in a Vega (Boston) flyer in 1961 where it lists for $309. Note below the C.F. There were forty-six Vega Martin V-45 banjos made of similar design, but the hardware was gold-plated. I own Martin Vega Wonder serial no. Vega Banjos Serial Numbers - spheregenerous Its a Vega VIP with the Martin Co. logo on the back of the peg head. Depending upon condition, it is probably worth somewhere around $750 these days. Ernie Ball 5-String Medium Stainless Steel Banjo Strings, 10-10 Gauge (P02309) Check Price at Amazon. Original MRSP $1310 without case (carved neck was also extra). Barry. Ive attached a photo of that Coat of Arms resonator next to my Vox Vit was a spare they had made for Eddie Peabody. The open back Folk Wonder 5-stringer does not appear in the 1976 Vega/Martin catalogue where the Vega Wonder resonator series is still advertised. The seller advertised it (in 2016) as verified by BRC made in 1976 in Nazareth. Replacing a broken flange on a rare and vintage instrument is a tough task. Hello, I just stumbled onto this site today 4/16/20. The label indicates the banjo was made in Needham, MA, but the Vega company was owned by the CF Martin guitar company. I was told by someone at C. F. Martin that they only made 11 of them ( mine is ser # 7 ) . Do you have any additional information you could share regarding this instrument? Answer: Tu-Ba-Phone 5-String made 1978-1979. I have a vegavox 4 tenor banjo by Martin . It has the original hardshell case also with no markings. 7. Another side note, Greg Deering has made two prototype Voxes alreadyI have played one of them, which is basically an identical design to the 1967 Vox I with a paddle peghead and crown inlays. VIP is printed on the truss rod cover. It retailed for $775 and was probably assembled from parts left over from Nazareth, PA. From the BRC, Barry. The Item # was VT2NRC. Reply from our BRC consultant and Vega Vox scholar Dr. Ron: Looks like something that might have put together from parts, either insideor outside the factoryI suspect the latter as there have been lots of Voxchop shop conversions going back in time (even to the 1920s). Barry, My Vega VIP 5-string has S/N 2316 painted inside the rim, which I presume means it was assembled by Galaxy in Asia. It was manufactured in Nazareth, PA, in mid 1973 per shop order # 2154. Thanks for your very kind words about the BRC website. The C.F. The other 9 were likely shipped to Canada or Japan for assembly after 1977. C.F. Thanks from all of us! Hey, Ive got a Martin Vega Tubaphone 5 string banjo sn# 1603 that I acquired in the mid-1980s. 2 classic model. The new longneck was design to match the original neck in style and looks while also using some of Vega's Pete Seeger model as influence. The highly ornate Vega Vox IV banjo with serial number #1969 was the final officially documented banjo manufactured by C. F. Martin in Nazareth, PA. , circa 1978-79. best of . Martin also made 1976 model D-76 guitars to partner the banjo. In your e-mail, you mention being told when acquiring the instrument that it was a prototype design. My estimate would be that this rare and exotic bird might fetch around $1800 or more these days. Serial numbers became unreliable during that era. The evolution of the Professional model dates back to the Boston 1963 Vega catalogue that featured the first Pro model banjo that looked like an inexpensive version of the Earl Scruggs model that Vega offered at that time. We've been notified and are looking into it. Vega Regent 5 String Banjo (1925) | RetroFret Rob- Thank you for the below photos. Not a fancy top-line model, but still built with the typical extremely high quality components and a simple but . Ive owned one for 30 yrs though I dont play it very well. It sounds like your banjo is maybe a hybrid made overseas after 1976-1977 when Vega Martin parts were shipped to Japan and later Canada for assembly. Is this original? Thank you so much!! used speakers for sale craigslist; pioneer woman carne guisada; vega banjo identification; By . What is it worth today, and what did it sell for when new? A few months later, the old six digit number system was replaced with new sequence starting with #2 and progressing sequentially to a four digit number over the ensuing years. The first two digits tell you the month the banjo was built, the last two digits before the dash or space will tell you the year, and the numbers in between are considered the number of that model we have made since we started the formal serial number system in 1987. Have a great weekend as well. I orderedit in 1970 through a music store in Norwich , Ct run by Cliff Tidd . Again, thanks for your post. I play it weekly (weakly) on Monday nights at restaurant in Anaheim, California and love its sound. The use of a brass band on the wood rim also appeared on some models at this time, to improve sound.What would be more telling is the peghead (where strings are attached) design at the time as they were in the process of changing from a scrolled shape to paddle peg head. Therefore it became dissembled. Hi there Folks.A few weeks ago i bought a Vega martin 5 string banjo, tubaphone tonering, the screws to attach the shoes to the bracket band go through the bracketband but also through the rim.The banjo is almost in unplayed condition, sounds wonderfull, the original case is also there.serial numer is 1707. Joshua- Send me some detailed photos of your banjo inside and out. Thats when I decided to modify this rather bluegrassy bright (and plenty of loud) sounding Folk banjo a bit. Thanks to BRC Consultant and Vega Vox scholar Dr. Ron from everyone at the BRC for providing representative images typical of this historic crowning jewel (see below correspondences #24). Over a period of several years, the Vega line morphed into a uniquely featured Vega Martin instrument. Barry, I have purchased a Martin Vega V-45 described as 1971 production and a serial number of #327. It is a somewhat rare bird, as C.F. From the BRC, Barry. I have had the opportunity to do this only once for a friend who traded some vintage parts with me for an old flange that I had by serendipity on my workshop shelf. Of note, when the Professional 5-stringer was made in Boston in the early 1960`s, it had square MOP inlays with dots on the neck compared to the nicely designed inlays on your fretboard and seen in the 1966 catalogue. The serial numbers for the overseas-produced instruments were in the 2000+ range in sequence with the last official VM banjo manufactured in Nazareth, PA, which bore #1969. Just wondering if you have any interesting data on this ax. Any clues? Martin briefly built a lightweight tenor banjo between 1923-26 to compete with Vega and other manufacturers whose heavier and more popular banjos had greater tone, volume, and sales. Zero fret wear. Enjoy. The VIP banjo last appeared in the 1976 VM catalog as an open back instrument but still featuring the V.I.P. My aunt gave me a Martin Vega banjo serial number 892 to see what it was worth since she is not internet savy and looking to sell it. Great Savings & Free Delivery / Collection on many items. I actually picked up a banjo that had a resonator that was sitting on the shelf in that 1970-72 period as Martin was transitioning and shutting down the factory there. I would love to be able to date this banjo: SN 999 as a decal under the Martin logo inside the rim with the Martin logo decal on the back side of the peghead as well. 6. Vega Short Scale 4 string banjo neck model? - Mandolin Cafe Really sounds and pays great. from BRC: Wim- Thanks for the great photo of your busy workshop. Your banjo SN 990 is indeed a Pro-5, and it was one of the last five Professional banjos built by VM in 1974 per Shop Order 2211. Barry- Thanks for your queries and subsequent photos that promt me to revise my initial response. The rare T-2 and T-2XL had serial numbers in the #1607-1945 range. The Style K was Vega's least expensive banjo-mandolin, not having a "tone ring" installed, unlike the pricier Tu-Ba-Phone and Whyte Laydie models. Is 887 also a Pro5? I have two Ode long neck banjos, and one of them is my daily practice instrument because of its wife-friendly tone. The model was discontinued after Martin Guitar bought Vega in 1970. The VIP-T is a nice mid range banjo model, and I have a VIP-5 which has a pleasant mid range tonal response. It is a beauty. Martin built only 31 of the V-41 instruments: 28 of the V-41-5 model like yours, 1 plectrum and 2 tenor 4-stringers. Aside a changed bridge it remained un-modified and rarely played until about two years ago, as by the time I had bought it, I more and more began concentrating on the guitar. I actually have a customized 75 Martin D28 to go with my 75 Vega. Eddie- Thanks for your query and kind comments about the website. Vega Martin SN 1199 is one of five VIP-T (tenor) banjos made per shop order # 2233 in late 1974 in Nazareth, PA. If you need photos I can take a few and send them to you on a subsequent time. I gave alot of money for this, just hoping a made a decent deal. All the best from the BRC, Barry. Martin- Thank you for your query and very useful photos. I would appreciate it very much. Martin Vega banjo #892 should be a long neck open back Folklore Model manufactured in the latter half of 1973 per shop order 2198. Martin factory in Nazareth, PA, parts were shipped overseas to Japan and Canada for assembly. It is not to be confused with the metal pie plate or hubcap resonator manufactured by Elton in the 1930`s. Barry. The tone ring holes are grouped in sets of three rather than equally spaced as on a tubaphone ring. I recently took my Dads 4 string banjo out of storage after approximately 25 years since his passing. Wooden pot resonator. The Folk Wonder is an open-back banjo that features a maple neck, a white bound ebony fretboard with pearl dots, and geared pegs in the headstock. VT2NRC in its 1979 catalogue, and Galaxy went bankrupt in a few years. FREE SHIPPING! The Vega/Martin PS-5 would probably fetch in the $1000- 2500 range these days depending on appointments and condition, whereas the Vega/Boston Seeger banjo seems to be valued more by collectors and would command a higher price. This model appears in the 1972 and 1976 catalogues. Martin V740 Strings Vega strun banjo 5-strunowego RETRO 10-23,10 I love the story. Ironically, C.F. In the Vega Martin shop files, banjo SN 916 is a VVI-P (Vega Vox Style 1 plectrum) resonator banjo made in 1974 in Nazareth, PA. Plectrum 4 stringers have 22 frets compared to the tenors that have 17 to 19 frets. The tiny screws adjacent to it are an adaptation by the Vega franchise to afford fine-tuning of the side-to-side alignment of the neck. Martin students believe that it was a market ploy to attract owners of the legendary Martin D-45 guitar to purchase a partner banjo, but the strategy did not succeed. The differentiating feature is the deeper resonator than the VIP/Pro II/Osborne/Scruggs Mk II/Bobby Joe Fenster standard resonator modelsnot quite as deep as the Vox and not top tension (standard hook and nut with Pro II flanges). By early 1971, Martin began to assemble banjos from Boston-made parts in Nazareth using the Vega six digit serial number system prefixed with the letter M for Martin and beginning with Shop Order 2001. Fender Standard Banjo Hardshell Case Black chuya There are 13 stars on the banjo fretboard, and there should be a plaque on the back of the headstock. The five number labels were found in banjos made from 1962 through February 1964, involving serial numbers A10300 through A12400. Retail price was $1300.00 ; I paid $900.00 . When C. F. Martin took over Vega in 1970, they dropped the A-xxxxxx serial numbers and replaced it with M-xxxxxx series, until starting a new four digit numbering system in 1972 at the Nazareth factory. Again, thanks for your query and photos. It is a VEGA MARTIN tenor 4 string on which is written a number: 1040 .On the handle, it is engraved VIP and the back of the handle, there is the CF Martin logo.I want to know the date of construction , its positioning in the range of tenor banjos and possibly the price it may be worth now .Thank you in advance and best wishes !Bernard, BRC Banjo Replies:June 1, 2016 at 2:33 pm, Bonjour Bernard- Your VIP (Very Important Player) tenor banjo serial number 1040 was one of three VIP-T banjos manufactured by C.F. Galaxy marketed its 4 and 5 stringers in the USA via a remarkably unimaginative TMC catalog in which each banjo was identified only with an Item number but no model moniker to give it personality like the Pro-5 or Wonder banjos named by the earlier corporate owners. vega banjo identification - americanuzbekistan.org Dr. Ron- the BRC staff and readers appreciate all the wonderful details and photos. Vega banjos were then marketed in the USA by TMC (Targ & Dinner Music Company). Reverb Homepage Contact Support 539673d7daac40d5a6fd870a259b9813 Shop Gear Categories Brands Shops Deals and Steals Price Drops 0% Financing New and Popular Handpicked Collections Sell on Reverb We have a bunch of new Deering merch for you whether it be socks, shirts, tote bags, mugs, and more! The Banjo Rehabilitation Center archives contain the serial numbers and dates of manufacture of the Vega-Martin banjos made in Nazareth, PA, during the 1970`s. I have 2 Martin Vegas. Of note, the PS-5 had the `famous Vega Tube-a-phone tone ring rim`, a 3 piece ebony fingerboard, pearl dots, a neck-tension rod, nickel-plated rim parts, a shaded mahogany neck, and a 10 ply maple rim. The banjo featured a metal tone ring, white fingerboard binding, a heavy notched tension hoop, a 10 ply rim, geared tuning pegs, a 3 piece maple neck, blackwood fingerboard, pearl dots, a resonator, an arm rest, nickel plated parts, and a shaded mahogany finish. Martin, but I do not detect such an identifying decal near the serial number on the interior of the rim. A sticker inside says The Vega Co. Boston 15, MASS, Patended USA The serial number is A-125394. Thanks again for your post and pictures and kind comments about the website. Both are in wonderful condition. Data zakoczenia 2022-09-02 - cena 20,90 z S.C.- Thank you for your query to the BRC. All the best pickin`, and thanks for your kind words about my website. One of the best known Kay electric guitars during the 1950s was the K-161 "Thin Twin", most visibly used by blues artist Jimmy Reed. The rich heritage of Vega was derelict for 5 years until Deering rescued it by acquiring rights to the brand name in 1989. Well, this is a hybrid banjo, and doubtful that is a Galaxy banjo. It has the famous Vega `Tu-Ba-Phone` tone ring and notched tension hoop both made of bell brass, an ebony fingerboard, and a 10 ply maple rim. Bill Keith Stainless Steel D-Tuners, for 2nd & 3rd strings. Have a bunch of pics I can forward, any particular area to focus on that would help? My personal suggestion, however, is to preserve it as a tangible keepsake of the priceless moments spent with your father years ago. Fantastic site with wonderful information. This is a stock neck off a Martin-made tenor from that erathe fingerboardblock inlay is what would be found on only the Vox I or Pro. March 13, 2017 at 3:46 pmRob- Thank you for your query and very kind comments about the BRC website. I dont play any instrument right now. And recently I installed a new Elite head, which made a wonderful difference. I am wondering what you can tell me about a Vega long neck banjo with Martin stamp on the back of the headstock and inside, serial number 82? It turned out the owner had another banjo that also resembled a Vega but had the same lack of Vega ID, turns our the name "W Fawly" was on the wooden center dowel . This is a beautiful banjo! While the Martin factory in Nazareth, PA, retooled to build banjos, interim yellow stickers were affixed to the inner rims of Boston banjos citing the merger and identifying the model of the instrument (which was inscribed by pen). Per my files, the Pete Seeger long neck first appears in a Vega flyer in 1961 for $309. A total of 98 model D-76E guitars were also made for employees. vega banjo identification - nutrir.cl I have a Martin Vega Banjo, #324. Also, the banjo has some ornate details carved in it. model serial number 1990. ), Wim- Congratulations on procuring such a lovely vintage instrument. Thanks again. The Vega Vox model was a 4 string gem that featured a brass tone ring. Lastly, the banjo could be cleaned-up and refitted at a local music shop, or referred by the shop to a nearby luthier for repairs; and you would have a workable starter banjo for taking some exploratory music lessons. The Vega Company reportedlyintroduced the first wooden sectioned pie resonator in mid 1923 for their Vega Professional 4-stringer. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thank you for your query to the BRC and the abovephoto link. Hope this helps, and thanks again for your post. If this banjo has some more of the early prewar design features, add $1000-1500.Hope this helps, Dr. Ron. 28 de mayo de 2018. Eric- Thanks for your kind comments about the website and prompt photos. I appreciate having some of the history around my banjo and will cherish it even more knowing it is somewhat rare. Virtually immaculate. The six digit Boston serial numbers were replaced by the Martin SN`s beginning with #2 in 1972. JC Id love to learn more about it, etc. and CXXVI (126?). SF bay area > east bay > for sale > musical instruments - by owner. Typically, the number would be preceded with an A (indicating an adjustable truss rod) followed by a six-digit number. Look for decals and a serial number on the interior of the rim to help document its story. 1972 Vega Banjo. The 10-1/8" diameter rim has a calf skin head and most of it's original . Your 5-stringer serial #993 is one of six Pro-5`s manufactured per Shop Order # 2211 in mid 1974 by C.F. Deering rescued the Vega line by purchasing the brand name in 1989. GREAT FORUM. Elite Fiberskyn Banjo Head, 11", High. Martin V730 StringsVega struny banjo 5str 10-23,10 - 11109713090 They made both tenor/plectrum and five-string models. The banjo had a 3 piece maple neck and a signature tubaphone tone ring clearly shown in the pictures that you provided. Martin sold the Vega brand to the Asian conglomerate Galaxy Trading Company in March of 1979. Martin did not publish suggested retail prices after 1971, but I would estimate the V-76 sold for around $7-800 with case. vega banjo identification. Fred- Thank you for the detailed photos of your instrument. Give it a try and good luck. Nam liber tempor cum soluta nobis eleifend option congue nihil imperdiet doming id quod mazim placerat facer possim assum. He uses the one piece neck design typical of the other Deering models with the SN stamped on the back of the peghead. Barry, Marc- Thanks much for the prompt and telling photos. Banjoman- C.F. The Vega line was then marketed in the USA by TMC Company (Targ & Dinner 20 Century Music Company). 5. Hope this helps.