Paramount Style A 19-Fret Tenor Banjo – Rettburg & Lange, New York 

This beautifully preserved Paramount Style A tenor banjo, crafted in late 1925 by the renowned Rettburg & Lange factory in New York, is a fine example of early 20th-century American banjo craftsmanship. With serial number # stamped on both the perch pole and inner rim, this instrument predates the 1926 production run (serials #6000–7000), placing it firmly in the golden era of jazz and vaudeville performance.

The Style A model was built using high-quality rock maple tone wood, known for its bright tonal characteristics and durability. The lacquer has aged gracefully into a warm light patina, enhancing both its aesthetic and vintage appeal. The neck remains perfectly straight, I have given it a full refret so its playing perfectly up the full length of the neck with low string action, making it a joy to play.

Currently strung with Harmonic German bronze phosphor strings (gauges 12, 17, 26, 36), the banjo is set up for traditional playing styles, offering a crisp, resonant voice. A new Remo white smooth top 11–2/16″ head complements the archtop tone ring, delivering bright, sustaining tones ideal for solo or ensemble performance.

All hooks and nuts are original Paramount hardware, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail typical of Rettburg & Lange instruments. The banjo is housed in its original black leatherette hard shell case with a plush blue interior, ensuring safe storage and transport.

This instrument has clearly been lovingly cared for throughout its lifetime, as evidenced by its condition and finish. It’s not just a collector’s piece but a fully playable banjo with historical significance and tonal excellence.

Features and Specifications:

• Headstock: Elaborate floral mother-of-pearl inlay
• Neck: Maple with a central walnut strip and side purfling
• Fretboard: Rosewood with diamond MOP position markers
• Original Page machine tuners (indestructible type) solid brass/nickel plated
• Scale Length: 23″ from nut to bridge
• Hardware: 24 bracket hooks & nuts, round-hole flange plate
• Tailpiece: adjustable Paramount swivel lock
• Armrest: Paramount flat bar armrest (has a modern gibson style on in the photos but will be sold with the original armrest)
• Head: Remo white smooth top 11–2/16″
• Rim: Fancy wood marquetry banding

This Paramount Style A tenor banjo is not only a visually stunning piece of musical history but also a highly playable instrument for serious musicians. Its responsive setup and crisp tonal output make it ideal for traditional jazz, Irish folk, or early swing styles. The combination of original hardware and a modern Remo head ensures a balanced blend of vintage warmth and contemporary clarity. This banjo is in truly remarkable condition, original components, and verified 1925 serial number offer significant historical value. It represents a rare opportunity to own a fully functional example of Rettburg & Lange’s legacy—perfect for display, performance, or investment.