Ludwig Big Chief Plectrum Banjo , c. 1928
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Item # 4290
Prices subject to change without notice.
Ludwig Big Chief Model Plectrum Banjo, c. 1928, made in Chicago, natural finish, walnut neck and resonator, ebony fingerboard; brass rim, original brown leather covered hard shell case.
With a list price of $450.00 the Ludwig Big Chief was far from the most expensive banjo of the late 1920's, but it is absolutely one of the most striking. Not only are all the metal parts engraved and gold plated, but the entire instrument is covered with incredibly elaborate wood marquetry in a native American motif. The Big Chief is almost legendary among collectors as one of the ultimate 1920's expressions of banjo art.
Overall length is 38 in. (96.5 cm.), 10 3/4 in. (27.3 cm.) diameter head, and 3 3/8 in. (8.6 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 27 in. (686 mm.). Width of nut is 1 1/4 in. (32 mm.). Refinished and replated, but all original hardware. Restored to virtual near mint, showing almost no use since. Generally Excellent Condition.
With a list price of $450.00 the Ludwig Big Chief was far from the most expensive banjo of the late 1920's, but it is absolutely one of the most striking. Not only are all the metal parts engraved and gold plated, but the entire instrument is covered with incredibly elaborate wood marquetry in a native American motif. The Big Chief is almost legendary among collectors as one of the ultimate 1920's expressions of banjo art.
Overall length is 38 in. (96.5 cm.), 10 3/4 in. (27.3 cm.) diameter head, and 3 3/8 in. (8.6 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 27 in. (686 mm.). Width of nut is 1 1/4 in. (32 mm.). Refinished and replated, but all original hardware. Restored to virtual near mint, showing almost no use since. Generally Excellent Condition.