I just acquired a ODE Muse, I have no interest in keeping it, I have done a bit of research but I'm still at a loss of it's approximate value, it's still complete but it has been sitting for a long time, any input would be great.
Edited by - Texasbanjo on 02/12/2025 08:14:33
Since Muse was simply an Ode intended for music store sale, we’d need to know what model it is. Posting detailed pix to this thread would help members to identify it and suggest a value. If it has a resonator (back) be sure to tae that off for inside pix. Inside pix should also be included for an openback.
If it is the banjo in the media of your homepage, looks like a 1962-3 Muse Longneck. The market is extremely limited for these, but $800-1000 would probably be about right.
Sorry about the pics, I'm pretty green when it comes to doing much online, I was only able to post 3 photos but I'll try to post more, thank you..
Ok - since checking out more of Steve's pics, I've revised my year estimate - the hardware indicates 1964-5. Model 33, Grade 0 Muse longneck.
I'm attaching Steve's pics here.
Thank you
Since I'm going to be selling or trading this, should I attempt to clean this up or leave it in it's natural state? Obviously I've never sold an instrument before and could use all the input I can get. I'm by no means looking for a pot of gold from and I'd like it to go to someone who will appreciate it for what it is...
FWIW, I ran across this at Elderly:
I spoke with them and they were able to give me a price point to start with but I figured a little more input couldn't hurt..
quote:
Originally posted by Steve MizarI just acquired a ODE Muse, I have no interest in keeping it, I have done a bit of research but I'm still at a loss of it's approximate value, it's still complete but it has been sitting for a long time, any input would be great.
I also have a 33/0 Muse but mine is a flat top and yours is an arch top.
The Grade 0 was the bottom of the line and was never cataloged. The only difference between it and the Grade 1 is the neck. Unlike the multi-laminate of the higher models, the 0 is a 3-piece mahogany/maple/mahogany sandwich like yours or 1-piece mahogany like mine. Model 33 means extra long neck and can be found in any grade. I have seen a few 32 (regular 5-string) Grade 0 but never a 35 (tenor) or 34 (plectrum) — not saying they were never built, only that I have never seen any. All have Brazilian rosewood fretboards like yours and mine.
The neck laminations were designed to prevent twisting, a form of warping where one side bows more than the other. Although I've never seen a twisted Ode neck, mine is still perfect 60+ years after it was built. Nowadays, a one-piece mahogany neck that long would command quite a premium. I suppose that back then, the wood was cheaper than the labor to build them up like that.
The pot was cast with an inner lip. Left alone, it creates an arch top; ground down a little, you have a flat top like mine, ser# 1909. If your case looks like mine, that's an original Lifton, a desirable banjo case when in great condition. Looking closely, you'll see that the inner rim is not touching the head on mine, making it a flat top.
Edited by - mikehalloran on 02/18/2025 13:54:32
