C1912 Vega Fairbanks Tubaphone No. 2 Open Back Banjo Serial #29430

An iconic piece of American acoustic history, this circa 1912 Vega Fairbanks Tubaphone Banjo represents the gold standard of early 20th-century craftsmanship. Built during the prime transition era following Vega's acquisition of A.C. Fairbanks, this instrument bears the sought-after "Fairbanks Banjo made by Vega" stamp on the dowel rod.

Build & Materials

• Rim: Premium maple
• Fingerboard: Bound ebony with classic pearl star headstock inlays
• Tone Ring: Legendary square-tubing Tubaphone tone ring — celebrated for extraordinary clarity, bell-like sustain, and powerful projection

Sound Profile
The square-tubing Tubaphone tone ring delivers extraordinary clarity, bell-like sustain, and powerful projection, paired with responsive, dynamic playability.

The Details

• Built by Vega/Fairbanks, circa 1912
• Serial number: 29430
• Meticulously preserved with genuine vintage patina
• From the Marvin Rosenberg Collection

The Marvin Rosenberg Collection
This banjo comes from the collection of Marvin Rosenberg — patriarch, attorney, corporate counsel, competitive sports car racer, and lifelong lover of folk and Americana music. For decades, Marvin showed up to jam sessions and bluegrass venues with friends, and that same passion shaped his instrument collection. He sought out player-grade instruments — vintage pieces with real, honest wear from a life of actual use — over pristine collector-shelf pieces, assembling a personal collection of guitars, mandolins and banjos meant to be enjoyed rather than admired behind glass. Each piece was a tool of a passionate musician, chosen with the discerning eye of someone who understood exactly what made it special.

In stock now at Wood & Wire. A rare slice of musical heritage, ready to be played!

* The information presented here was collected from the estate of Marvin Rosenberg and independent research. It is accurate to the best of our ability.