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Message Board - Banjos
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An unusual Paramount 5 string Banjo
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posted by: Russ @ 3:44:18 PM · Tuesday, September 10, 2002
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I just recently purchased an unusual Paramount 5 string Banjo at an Antique Fea Market. It does not look like any of the ones that I have ever seen in pictures. There are no inlays on the peghead or finger board. The name Paramount is either a decal or painted on the peghead (not inlayed).
The interesting thing about it is that the body (ring and reflector) are both made out of Bakelite plastic (brown). The sound head is made out of plastic (not skin). There is not serial number anywhere on the Banjo.
Does anyone know its history (when it was made, why plastic, what it is worth? Any info would be greatly appreciated.
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re: An unusual Paramount 5 string Banjo
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posted by: Tony @
1:40:38 PM · 2/24/2003
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Hi Russ,
I read your msg with interest because a pawn shop near me has that same banjo and the asking price is around $80 I think.
I too am trying to find out what it's worth.
Let me know what you find out.
What did you pay for yours?
Thanks,
Tony
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re: An unusual Paramount 5 string Banjo
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posted by: oldjazznut @
1:52:27 PM · 3/25/2003
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Sounds like you may have a 1960's Harmony banjo with a "new" name put on it. They called the various models "Reso-Tone" because of the Bakelite rim and resonator. I understand it was an improved Bakelite formula, using fiberglass instead of wood fiber as a filler. They were student models that sold for about $50 new, in good shape worth about $125-$175 today.
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