(Used) Vintage c. 1889 S.S. Stewart 5-String Open-Back Pony/A-Scale Banjo #5643

Steeped in late-19th-century old-time musical tradition, this remarkable circa 1889 S.S. Stewart 5-string banjo is a gorgeous survivor from the golden era of Philadelphia instrument manufacturing. In Very Good Condition, especially for it's age, this has some wear on the back of the headstock Built on a compact "Pony" or "A-Scale" open-back rim framework, this instrument delivers a delightfully intimate, highly responsive acoustic voice that modern reproductions simply cannot replicate. It represents an elite acquisition for old-time frailers, traditional clawhammer players, or discerning collectors seeking an authentic piece of American musical history.

The structural foundation relies on a beautifully preserved cherry wood rim paired with a premium, traditional calfskin head that yields a warm, plunky acoustic response with rich old-time character. The interior dowel stick features the crisp, original factory stamps verifying its Philadelphia origin alongside the iconic "SSS" headstock emblem. To maintain authentic playability while offering a unique visual charm, the instrument retains a beautiful, historic tie-on ivory tailpiece that anchors strings across a low-profile wooden bridge setup.

The select cherry neck offers an incredibly comfortable, played-in feel that encourages long, effortless clawhammer sessions. The dark ebony fingerboard showcases a striking arrangement of mixed historic mother-of-pearl inlays, featuring an artistic combination of stars, circles, and diamonds across the scale. Outfitted with elegant, non-original ornamental ivoroid tuning pegs that function smoothly while enhancing the instrument's period-correct presentation, this rare 1880s masterpiece stands fully inspected and ready for its next musical chapter.

SPECS
Body Shape: Open-Back Pony / "A-Scale"
Head: Calfskin
Rim Material: Cherry
Neck: Cherry
Neck Profile: Traditional Period V-to-C Shape
Fingerboard: Ebony
Tailpiece: Original Tie-On Ivory
Bridge: Wood
Tuners: Ornamental Ivoroid (Non-Original Replacement)
Finish: Natural French Polish / Oil
Nut Material and Width: Bone, 2-1/8"
Scale Length: 22.5"

Notice: This is a used item. While we do a basic cleaning and setup before shipping, we are unable to make any modifications to, or guarantees of condition, and or history, outside of what we have personally found, or been informed of by the original owner, which will be included in the description.

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