1492-1892 Columbus Quatracentennial 5-string Banjo Circa 1892

This banjo is unmarked, but the tailpiece and other hardware indicates it was most likely made by the Lyon & Healy Company of Chicago. It was clearly made to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Columbus' discovery of America, which was celebrated at the Columbian Exposition of 1893 in Chicago.  Lyon & Healy had a large exhibit at the Exposition, and this banjo is a nicely made instrument with attractive pearl, copper, and pewter inlays.

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