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Featured Inventory Archives 1999-2012

Gruhn Guitars Ludwig Big Chief Tenor Banjo

Ludwig Big Chief


At the height of the Jazz Age in the 1920s, banjo makers introduced ever more ornate and expensive models. Leading the pack in the late '20s was Ludwig -- the same company whose name appeared on the bass drum head of Beatle Ringo Starr. Ludwig's Standard Art series served as a sort of gateway to the company's high end models.

This rare Ludwig Standard Art tenor (inv. #JE2640) from circa 1930 represents the opulence of the Jazz Age, with elaborate carving on the neck heel and back of peghead, extensive pearl and wood inlays, and engraved gold-plated hardware.

This banjo is in exceptionally fine condition. With original hard case it is offered at $4,500.

This instrument is SOLD

For full appreciation...

Body
Close of neck/body area
Fingerboard
Headstock
Back of headstock
Back of neck
Neck heel
Resonator
Full back view