Re: antique banjo mandolin restoration
The thin shell, and the low number of brackets, pretty much ID it as an entry-level instrument. Doesn't mean it can't be restored and play fine, just that its value is predominantly family-heirloom-sentimental.
I'd seek out at least professional evaluation and advice, if not turning over the project to experienced hands. And, I'd plan to have the instrument put back into playable condition, but retaining the "patina" of years of service, rather than going for "showroom" cosmetics.
Jus' my 2¢.
Allen Hopkins
Gibsn: '54 F5 3pt F2 A-N Custm K1 m'cello
Natl Triolian Dobro mando
Victoria b-back Merrill alumnm b-back
H-O mandolinetto
Stradolin Vega banjolin
Sobell'dola Washburn b-back'dola
Eastmn: 615'dola 805 m'cello
Flatiron 3K OM
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