Rare beyond measure, this is an original A. C. Fairbanks Whyte Laydie No. 2 Cello banjo, an instrument designed specially for use in a banjo orchestra, the only example we have seen. The rim assembly measures 12-3/8" across, is equipped with the famous scalloped Electric tonering, has the bracket band, and is trimmed on the interior in tortoise; dowel stick has all appropriate stamps and Fairbanks plate, and has one filled hole near ferule (perhaps from resonator); equipped with No Knot tailpiece; three of the nuts are open back/slightly later, and missing small portion of interior tortise binding (9 o'clock positon). The 29.5" scale three piece maple neck has an ebony fingerboard that was partially re-fretted in the first five positions and binding was reglued (one replaced section of binding behind first fret; very special pearl engraving present, including engraved dots, star w/ floral motif, mirrored crown on either side of nut, gryphon; original Champion friction tuners. Some cosmetic wear present on neck (scratching etc), with a repaired split on the original pearwood heel cap; light forward relief present, but a fine playing, and large, banjo!