I just picked up a Vega Whyte Laydie No. 2 from a yard sale with serial number 92057. The serial number on the pot matches the dowel stick and most everything appears to be original from what I can research. Neck appears to be in good shape with a chip out of the tip of the headstock and some white binding missing near one side of the top of the neck. Missing the 5th string pip too along with a few of the tension hooks are missing and one shoe. Grover tuners and Presto/Grover tailpiece.
Is the consensus that this banjo is worth restoring? If so, who would be a good luthier? Would anyone recommend sourcing parts and trying to get it playing without professional help? I am trying to decide if I want to make the investment or pass it along. Thanks for any advice!
Edited by - harrisiv on 09/18/2026 22:00:51
Properly restored, that’s a $2,000+ banjo. You did well. If you’re reasonably handy with tools, I read nothing that you couldn’t DIY with working slowly and carefully while asking questions here and reading through Frank Ford’s opus Frets.com
Few more pictures
In your part of the country, the person I would consider for the work would be Vinnie Mondello(BanjoHaven). He is a member here, and a fine fellow to deal with. He's in Pfluegerville. There might be someone closer to you but he's the first one who comes to mind and I've seen his work.
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