Antique 5 String Champion Banjo Mother of Pearl Inlay

This listing is for a rare antique 5-string banjo. The back of it is marked "CHAMPION Providence R.I." and the metal plate at the bottom of the neck says "Arthur F. Browne Prov, R.I." The tailpiece, which looks like bone or ivory, is marked "F&C Sept. 21 Pat. 1886." The banjo is decorated with gorgeous Mother of Pearl inlay on the fingerboard and peg head, and some nice engraved metal on the fretboard that looks like silver. There are two tuning pegs on the peg head, one of which is quite ornate. Another peg has broken off in the hole, and the fourth peg is missing. The neck looks like mahogany and appears solid with a slight bow. The fingerboard has moderate cracking. There is no nut or bridge on the instrument. There is moderate corrosion and some pitting on the metal. This banjo is a great candidate for possible restoration. We have a low opening bid and no reserve price so don't miss your chance to win!

Approximate measurements:

34 1/2" inches long
11 1/4" inches wide
2 1/4" inches deep
18" inch neck (from bottom of peg head to tension ring)