Micah13 - Posted - 07/20/2026:  16:47:41

Looking for help identify and pricing this banjo that ive been approached to buy. I know its an SS stewart banjo from 1896 i believe, but ive had a heck of a time trying to identify the model or price. Ive found ones that are similar headstocks and sizes but the inlays dont match and i cant find anything online that match the exact inlay pattern on this one. Any help would be greatly appreciated, thanks!

Edited by - Micah13 on 07/20/2026 16:51:20

 

tdennis - Posted - 07/20/2026:  17:30:19

Have you contacted the seller to look inside the pot where there is usually a model identification?

Joel Hooks - Posted - 07/20/2026:  18:05:25

Stewart model designations are based exclusively on size. Size of rim (head), length of neck (nut to rim). Everything else is variable (more or less).

The size tells the model. Also, do not rely on Mugwumps for the date. The serial number can give some ideal.

Photos need to be clear, in focus, and well lit with lots of light. Take it out of the case. Use the focus feature on your phone. Use the sun if indoor light is not bright enough (it is typically not).

esmic - Posted - 07/20/2026:  18:22:08

It has 24 brackets, 20 frets, No. 2 inlays.
If the rim is 11" it is a Universal Favorite No 2.
If the rim is 10" it is an American Princess No 2.
There should be an ivoroid badge with model name inside the pot.
Post the serial number to get confirmation of build year.

Joel Hooks - Posted - 07/20/2026:  19:56:14

And if it is 10.5 it is a specialty.

So, size matters. Bracket count and decoration less so.

csacwp - Posted - 07/21/2026:  08:08:52

Also, it goes without saying that these banjos shouldn't be strung with steel strings. LaBella 17's would be appropriate.

Micah13 - Posted - 07/21/2026:  13:44:31

quote:

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Originally posted by tdennis

Have you contacted the seller to look inside the pot where there is usually a model identification?

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Yes and it just has a serial and the made in philidephia stamp i could see the screw wholes of where it wouldve been but it was taken off

Micah13 - Posted - 07/21/2026:  13:47:09

quote:

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Originally posted by csacwp

Also, it goes without saying that these banjos shouldn't be strung with steel strings. LaBella 17's would be appropriate.

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Yeah the seller had the tension off the steel strings and it was taken to a luthier and checked neck is good and low. Probably gonna get a new bridge for it and gut strings when i get it

Micah13 - Posted - 07/21/2026:  13:47:43

quote:

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Originally posted by esmic

It has 24 brackets, 20 frets, No. 2 inlays.

If the rim is 11" it is a Universal Favorite No 2.

If the rim is 10" it is an American Princess No 2.

There should be an ivoroid badge with model name inside the pot.

Post the serial number to get confirmation of build year.

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Thanks for the info, i will in a few days when i go get more pictures and a way to meausre the pot

Edited by - Micah13 on 07/21/2026 13:48:58