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In 1930 Paramount began production of its final series of banjos, this would be the “Super Paramount” series. There were three models produced and came with their own serial numbers which were in three digits. All had identical construction, but there were many differences in the artistic decorations. The Ensemble King was not very decorative, being nickel plated, made in maple wood, and with a rather plain resonator design.

The Artists Professional, as seen here, was made in American walnut, with gold plating, and a sunburst wood inlay design on the resonator, as well as intricate inlay work on the resonator side. They represent the ultimate expression of the resonator concept as initially developed by Lange for the Paramount line. Two separate resonant chambers are utilized in Super Paramount banjos, and the resulting banjos were as large and heavy as jazz banjos ever got.  Paramount used to advertise that “No artificial materials are utilized in these banjos”, an apparent reference to the widespread use of pyralin, or pearloid, by Bacon & Day and other jazz era banjo manufacturers.  Note the beautiful wood marquetry inlay on the back and sides of the resonator.

This banjo seen has a serial number of xxx, and was made in 1931.  All three models had the double stepped resonator, unique to Paramount, and not seen on any other banjo. All three also came with a large one piece tone modifier tailpiece mute.

The wood marquetry on the resonator is very beautifully hand crafted, as is the mother of pearl inlay on the headstock and neck inlay position markers. Thankfully this model has the ‘indestructible’ page geared tuner which all work perfectly and hold tuning well, complete with pearl buttons. I know these are rare and historically significant so to own one would be a great investment for the future. Comes with a non original hardshell case.

*If you do a web search for this model of Paramount you will see prices around $4k

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A lovely 19 fret Maybell style B tenor banjo, made in Chicago USA. Hard to believe the condition of this little tenor banjo considering its over 90 years old. There isn’t a scratch on it, the 3 piece neck is made from birdseye maple with centre ebony strip for strength, and a ebony heel cap. The neck is straight with good frets and low playing action. The side of the neck has white binding with black dot position markers. Ebony faced head stock bearing the ‘Maybell’ name in MOP, mostly likely upgraded with new quality Schaller geared tuners. The resonator is also made from birdseye maple veneer with black side binding and  has been shaped convexed to reflect the sound out. The centre of the resonator has a centred floral decal and has a integrated nickel plated flange . The maple pot is 3/4″ thick with herringbone wood marquetry around the sides and a ‘Donut’ style tone ring, presto tailpiece and newly fitted renaissance head.

For Sale £750