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This is an Alvarez Deluxe banjo made in Japan in the late 70’s or early 80’s. I believe it’s a “Minstrel” model 4289. I do not know the exact date of manufacture as there is no serial number. But the banjo’s features are typical of Alvarez Minstrel Deluxe banjos from this era. I acquired the banjo in the mid 1980’s, so I believe it to be all original except for the bridge and drum head.
The banjo features a rosewood resonator with ornamentation, a mahogany neck and rosewood fretboard with “bowtie” inlays. The headstock has a rosewood veneer with decorative mother or pearl inlays. The drum is chrome with engraved armrest and tailpiece. I believe the shell is multi-ply maple.
This instrument has a nice full tone with lots of chime and volume. The neck is straight, plays well with low action and there’s lots of fret life left. It is on the heavy side but apparently well made and holds its setup and tuning well. The tuners have a friction screw on them to help stabilize tuning. Please note, the nut is not glued. I preferred this and will leave it to its new owner to glue it in if desired. I will include two bridges (none original); the one on the banjo now is a recent Snuffy compensated bridge that greatly improves intonation.
The original hardshell case is in good shape, closes securely with a leather handle that’s intact and secure. The case does have scuffs, ripped tolex in certain spots and a broken back latch but overall in good condition with the remaining 4 latches working perfectly and the inside plush lining in nice shape and protects the instrument.
Please feel free to ask any questions you may have and thanks for looking.
This is an Alvarez Deluxe banjo made in Japan in the late 70’s or early 80’s. I believe it’s a “Minstrel” model 4289. I do not know the exact date of manufacture as there is no serial number. But the banjo’s features are typical of Alvarez Minstrel Deluxe banjos from this era. I acquired the banjo in the mid 1980’s, so I believe it to be all original except for the bridge and drum head.
The banjo features a rosewood resonator with ornamentation, a mahogany neck and rosewood fretboard with “bowtie” inlays. The headstock has a rosewood veneer with decorative mother or pearl inlays. The drum is chrome with engraved armrest and tailpiece. I believe the shell is multi-ply maple.
This instrument has a nice full tone with lots of chime and volume. The neck is straight, plays well with low action and there’s lots of fret life left. It is on the heavy side but apparently well made and holds its setup and tuning well. The tuners have a friction screw on them to help stabilize tuning. Please note, the nut is not glued. I preferred this and will leave it to its new owner to glue it in if desired. I will include two bridges (none original); the one on the banjo now is a recent Snuffy compensated bridge that greatly improves intonation.
The original hardshell case is in good shape, closes securely with a leather handle that’s intact and secure. The case does have scuffs, ripped tolex in certain spots and a broken back latch but overall in good condition with the remaining 4 latches working perfectly and the inside plush lining in nice shape and protects the instrument.
Please feel free to ask any questions you may have and thanks for looking.
