Top tension banjos provided handy access to the brackets for head adjustment without one's having to remove the resonator. As the tension hoop became a critical part of the tensioning system, it became fairly substantial, which tended to add weight to banjos thus outfitted.

This banjo, made by Tut and Mark Taylor and Bob Givens (pre-Rich and Taylor and Crafters of Tennessee) is a beautiful example of top tension design.

This particular mahogany banjo has seen its share of use, with belt dings, scratches, and finish wear. Fret wear, however, is slight.

With a hardshell case, this distinct vintage banjo is consigned for only $2300.

Click on any photo to enlarge it.

	The ebony fingerboard has distinctive MOP position markers. Spikes have been installed at frets 7 and 9 to facilitate playing in the keys of A and B.			Each bracket adjusts from the top, adding significant mass to the tension hoop.
	The double-cut peghead has a decidedly "Tennessee" shape. Its finish has yellowed nicely over the years.			The peghead shows some bumps & bruises from use over the years.
	The mahogany neck is one-piece, and has its share of dings and bumps from age.			It's set up with a Remo head, a Snuffy Smith brand bridge, and a Fults brand tailpiece.
		Its mahogany resonator has a dark finish with the usual scratches and belt buckle dings.

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