Vega Tubaphone No 3 Plectrum Banjo 1927 Needs Work

No sales tax for customers outside California.

This 1927 Vega Tubaphone No. 3 plectrum banjo is a rare and desirable prewar instrument featuring Vega’s famous Tubaphone tone ring—known for its power, clarity, and projection.  The No. 3 model was one of Vega’s higher-end offerings, with ornate inlays, quality craftsmanship, and a resonance that made these instruments favorites among jazz, folk, and Dixieland players of the early 20th century.

As noted in the pictured appraisal from Gryphon Stringed Instruments, the banjo features a 10 15/16" head diameter, 26 7/8" scale length, and an intact Rogers skin head.  Pearl, diamond-shaped inlays were added to the fretboard at the 7th and 12th frets.  The tuners were changed to Grover 2:1 "pancake" style machines.  An Elton armrest has been added.  The resonator has been oversprayed with thick coats of dark staining lacquer, which now shows significant checking.  A circular piece of plywood was added to the resonator to correct warping cause by overtightening of the resonator mounting screw.  The headstock has a superficial surface crack on the face.

The work needed to get the instrument playable is somewhat limited, but in the end this will probably end up becoming a 5 string conversion.  The tailpiece is broken and needs to be replaced and there is no bridge.  The frets show pitting.  The case has seen better days.

This example is offered as-is and in need of repair, making it an excellent project for restoration experts, collectors, and luthiers familiar with vintage Vega hardware. Cosmetic wear is consistent with its age, and structural and setup work will be required to bring it back to full playing condition. For those willing to take on the restoration, the payoff is significant: a genuine 1920s Tubaphone capable of stunning volume, harmonic complexity, and that unmistakable Vega chime.

At Mahar’s Vintage Guitars, every vintage banjo is photographed accurately so buyers know exactly what they are getting.

We buy, sell, and accept trades.

Excerpts from real online user reviews of Vega Tubaphone Banjos:

“Tubaphones have unmatched volume and punch.” – Banjo Hangout
“Vega craftsmanship from this era is exceptional.” – Acoustic Guitar Forum
“Great project instrument with huge tonal potential.” – Reddit r/Banjo
“The Tubaphone ring is still the gold standard.” – The Gear Page
“Highly collectible when restored properly.” – Harmony Central

Be sure to check out the other cool stuff on our site

Mandolin, Banjo and Ukulele page
Martin Acoustic Guitar Collection
Our News and Info Blog Page

Specs:

• Weight: 8lbs 12.5oz
• Body: Maple Rim
• Tone Ring: Tubaphone tone ring
• Neck: Intricate Carved Maple
• Fretboard: Ebony
• Inlays: Mother of Pearl individual inlay
• Frets: Original
• Fret Count: 22
• Nut: Original bone
• Nut Width: 1-1/4"
• Scale: 27"
• Neck Thickness at 1st Fret: .91"
• Neck Thickness at 12th Fret: .995"
• Total Length: 37-1/2"
• Head Diameter: 11"
• Resonator Depth: See Pic
• Hardware: 28 Hooks / Lugs, Tubaphone tone ring
  
• Bridge: included
• Tuners: Grover
• Case: OHSC, beat up / handle broken
• Notes:

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