Here is an interesting and ornate instrument for the banjo detectives to puzzle over. The rim is 10-3/4" with the classic "Tubaphone" tonering which Vega introduced in 1909. The rim has no serial number or markings at all. It is a bit thicker than usual with a wide strip of tortoise binding along the edges and a fancy marquetry tim gracing the bottom of the shell. The tension hoop, hooks, nuts and shoes are not Vega but are old and look like they came from another Boston factory but the tailpiece is the cam style no knot. The neck is mahogany with lots of fancy engraved pearl and a very interesting heel carving. The tuners are non geared, gold friction style with large pearl buttons. After lots of pondering we are making the assumption that this banjo was made outside of the Fairbanks-Vega factory perhaps by an employee or someone trying to imitate an original. A great player with a great look.