1927 Bacon & Day Silver Bell N0.1 four string tenor banjo made in Groton, CT. The Bacon and Day company was the collaboration of David Day, former plant manager of the Vega Banjo Company and Fred Bacon. Designed for their cutting power in the 1920’s jazz era, they are loud, but have great tone. This Silver Bell has an ivoroid bound 23″ scale figured maple 5 piece neck and birds-eye maple resonator finished in a beautiful sunburst finish. The neck is 100% straight with low playing action and has been recently completely refretted. Ivoroid-bound 19 fret ebony fingerboard with varied inlay pattern, “B&D / SILVER / BELL” and fancy pearl leaf inlays on headstock overlay. It weighs in at 8.2 pounds. The overall lacquer finish to the neck and resonator is outstanding for an instrument of its age as is the polished nickel plated metal parts, Silver Bell tone ring, 24 brackets, Oettinger adjustable fingers tailpiece, and an eye catching f hole flange. 5 star geared tuners with cream ivoroid buttons. The nickel plated flange, hooks & nuts are in mint condition including the wrap around close fit arm rest.
This banjo is original and has the matching serial numbers on both neck dowel piece and rim. Their is a beautiful tone to this banjo and the action is set low perfect for playing Irish trad or jazz. Comes with original vintage B&D hard shell case with plush inner purple velvet interior and leather carrying handle. Hard to find one of these treasures in immaculate condition.
Priced to sell £1750
