A True Slice of History (and Mystery)
ca. 1936 Kay Kraft Gold Leaf Indian Head Motif Tenor Banjo
I found this in the way back of the stack the other day. Wow!
Only one I've ever seen. I had forgotten about it.
It's in great condition with the exception of the tear on the head which is pictured.
However, since it still is quite playable (see the YouTube video - youtu.be/OCixdMNBYjE )
I don't want to put a new head on it. The old one has character but I know it won't last forever.
But it's a standard 11" rim so getting a new one should not be a problem.
Ollie or somebody 'enhanced' the headstock design with some cowboy stuff.
That stainless steel pickguard was certainly state of the art back then.
And the switch was probably once connected to a light inside.
And the Case ! That alone is worth a lot of history I'm sure.
Ollie Buddy or Ollie and Buddy must have been quite an act.
This was no doubt Ollie's instrument.
I'm just estimating the year of manufacture. But pretty sure mid thirties.




This banjo may be purchased for $950.00


  • Mandolins
  • Banjos
  • Steels , Slides & Ukes
  • Mandolas
  • Flat Top Guitars
  • Solid Body Electrics
  • Mandocellos
  • Arch Top Guitars
  • The Museum
  • Tenor Guitars
  • Resonator Instruments
  • Back To Main Page

  • All images and text on this web site are :
    Copyright 2004 - 2022 by Players Vintage Instruments.