Rare presentation grade banjo by John F. Luscomb, an esteemed banjoist and composer who designed several banjo models that were some of the highest quality instruments to leave the Thompson & Odell Co. of Boston; "America's Instrument"-Bollman/Gura. this is a glitzed up version of the 1893 patent tone ring banjo; fully spun rim, wooden interior wall, large rolled tube with beveled wooden edge that connects to head. Pot measures 11-1/8" across and has a nice Elite tailpiece; dowel stick has stamps and plaque with patent neck adjustment hardwear (small chunk missing near heel); engraved tension hoop, and rim. The mahogany neck has a 27" scale length, with typical pearl inlay pattern, with later frets (some pitting). Some wear present on back of neck, including finish chips on back; later tuners. Notable forward relief present, but plays well with nylon strings.