1926 Vega Tubaphone #9 with Whyte Laydie #7 Neck

Price: $3,500.00 USD

This somewhat odd but nonetheless elegant Vega came into my life when I went to a woman’s house to purchase some vintage Gibson guitars. She was moving and was getting rid of a bunch of instruments, so I figured I’d ask if she had any banjos she’d consider selling. She in fact did have one and disappeared for a long time to look for it, all the while I was assuming I sent her on a goose chase for a forlorn “bottle cap” banjo with guitar tuners poking out of the side of the headstock. Rather, she returned with this fascinating Bostonian artifact.

What I believe we have here is a 1920 Vega Whyte Laydie #7 neck that for whatever reason, was returned to the factory in 1926 to have a gold plated 10-15/16” Tubaphone #9 rim affixed to it. I have deduced this as the original #7 serial number was lightly crossed out. The later 1926 serial number from the tubaphone rim was lightly stamped into dowel stick in a different place. I am open to other opinions about how this came to be, but this theory has passed through several layers of my personal banjo brain trust and they agree.

Unfortunately the gold plating didn’t fare super well as much of it is discolored or worn off. However all the rim parts are present and original, save for the modern gold presto tailpiece. Even the skin head is Vega branded.

The maple neck beautifully figured and has an elegant heel carving extending partway from its base. The gold plated tuners are modern Asian made ones that were installed when I acquired it so I opted to leave them alone as they work fine. Unfortunately, someone decided to augment the Vega flowerpot with a border of Rhinestones, but I personally see no need to take any action about them. All inlays are present and in excellent shape.

Sonically, it sounds like a great Tubaphone. Plenty of that warm, round pop without loosing the high end. It’s been a joy to have around and is very inspiring to play.

This banjo comes in a very nice arch lid modern TKL hard shell case that is a slightly loose fit.

I hope to post better lit photos when/if the temperature warms up here and I can get it outside.



Thanks for looking and feel free to reach out with any questions.

Shipping: Cost

Posted By: Karl Smakula
United States, Nashville, TN,

Condition of Banjo: Used - Very Good Condition

Type: 5-String Openback, Brand: Vega

Ad Status: Active, #107459, viewed 2552 times