Originally leaving Vega as a standard Tubaphone No. 3 plectrum model in the mid 1920s, this example was heavily customized and upgraded and bears the name "E. B. Vaughn" inlaid into a pearl block on the 19th fret. The 11" rim assembly has original finish and stamps inside, with added gold plating on all metal parts including Tubaphone tonering, bracket band, armrest, hooks/nuts, tailpiece; a fancy resonator of walnut and maple was outfitted onto the rim (perhaps Paramount), with gorgeous flaming on the back. The original maple neck has a bound ebony fingerboard, later larger frets, with long heel carving, and marquetry to match the resonator added to the heel cap and back of peghead; added fancy pearl inlay work on the neck and peghead, complementing the standard model inlay; equipped with gold plated Grover two tab tuners with large pearl buttons. Notable tarnish is present on all the metal, with lots of cosmetic wear and tear to finish and wood. A nice playing with a good straight neck.