RARE...from New York banjo innovator George Teed, one of the first develop and patent a closed back or resonator to a banjo. The innovative design separates the head from the deep, round, resonating chamber. The rim measures 9-9/16" across, and features both the maker and retailer's information (Wm. West, San Fran.) engraved into the flange/tension hoop; curly walnut back and top piece, rosewood sides with thick band of marquetry; original six string tailpiece. The 25" scale length mahogany neck has a rosewood veneer fingerboard, and was likely fretted at a later date; simple maple fret position markers, with wider band at 17th fret; pointed peghead shape, with Champion friction tuners. Light forward relief, on neck, with past restoration present on entire instrument.