Antique Banjos – Some History

Collecting Antique Banjos

Banjos are musical instruments made originally by enslaved Africans in the United States. There are different forms of Banjos. One will find a four-string variety such as the plectrum banjo and a five string variety popularized by Joel Walker Sweeney. Another variety, a six-string one, is a British innovation.

Banjos can be played in different styles. The most common of these are the clawhammer and frailing. These are sometimes used interchangeably but seasoned artists can distinguish differences between the two. Theses playing styles uses a downward picking instead of the upward picking common in guitar playing. The difference between the two styles is mainly in the use of the fingers on specified strings.

Like any other musical instruments, banjos are used to play various forms of music. Blue grass music, which developed during the 1940’s, is one of the forms of music that uses features the banjo. Another form of music that uses the banjo is the old-time music, which is a form North American folk music. This form of music typically uses a five string open-back banjo.

The music mentioned above became popular in the early 20th century. Banjos made during that period are said to have a distinct sound because of their age and are considered a rare commodity. Since we are talking about banjos made 50 to 100 years ago, they are to be considered antiques. Four-string and five-string banjos made by Gibson in the1920’s and 1930’s are coveted because of their excellent sound and construction. These antique banjos fetch a very high price.

Because of their rarity, some more recent banjos are also considered antiques. One of the things considered valuable in antique banjos are distinct markings. One type of Gibson banjo is called the bow-tie banjo because it has a distinct marking that resembles a bowtie. The number of remaining banjos from a certain period is also considered when putting them in the list of antiques. Only a few banjos from the early years of production remain intact today. Restoration to its original form and sound is vital in preserving its value. Collectors would be thrilled to find out that aside from the authenticity of the manufacturing date the banjo was preserved from its original state. Efforts are exerted too in restoring the sound of antique banjos.

Antique Banjos are classified into two main categories: the pre-war and the post war banjos. They are further classified by year and style. There are websites that collect information about antique banjos. Those who are interested in collecting banjos but are not familiar with their description can find a wide range of information on different websites. Some sites offer very descriptive information. They even include listings of banjos according to the number produced by serial numbers.

It’s not that difficult to start making banjo collecting a hobby. There are those who are willing to help. They provide beginners with the right information. They are even willing to sell antique banjos. The only remaining decision is whether you are willing to pay the price.