H.C. Dobson fretless 5-string banjo, Circa 1878
In 1878, Henry Dobson patented a new version of his top-tension, resonator banjo. The new addition was a metal tension hoop to draw down the head. This high-grade banjo is marked "Martin Bros., New York, Dobson's 1978 patent". Martin Bros. was a New York distribution house and many of Dobson's banjos were sold through this source. Note the beautiful inlaid marquetry all over this banjo and the nice brass metalwork, especially the tailpiece.
