Hi
This looks very much like a Vega 19 fret tenor banjo. Vegas are generally regarded as desirable, high-quality instruments. To determine which model this is, we need photographs of the inside of the body. It's a simple task to remove the resonator (back) by unscrewing the fixing screw in the centre and lifting it off. There should be some maker's information on the dowel stick which holds the neck in place.
it is very likely a Vega Little Wonder from about 1925. As Harry mentioned removing the screw to take off the resonator will allow access to the stampings on the dowelstick that will include the maker, model name, and serial number stamps.
Bob Smakula
Quite nice for Celtic music. Other than that the market for tenor (4 string) banjos is somewhat small nowadays. Obviously it needs a new head, but any banjo player is capable of doing that. The hard shell case and nice resonator add a bit to its value, but I doubt it would hit the $1000 mark.
It is a “little wonder”. I’m debating repairing vs. selling. If I repair it what head should I have put on to ensure quality and keep its value. Thanks for the information.
Unless you want to hold fast to tradition, you would be better off replacing the skin head with a plastic one. Check with Bob Smakula who replied to this post earlier. He has a great selection and, usually the best prices of any dealer.
Measure the rim across several places. It should be 10 15/16". A high crown head is good, a medium would likely work just as well.
Just a thought about replacing that skin head with a plastic head. I think those hooks might have some difficulty getting around the aluminum ring on a plastic head, so you might want to consider a skin head. Maybe Bob can weigh in on this; I have found this to be an issue with those straight round hooks on older skin head banjos.
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