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musical instrument details

Vega 5 String Banjo Tubaphone

Estimated price for orientation: 685 $

Category: Banjos
Class:











Description
Condition: Used: An item that has been used previously. The item may have some signs of cosmetic wear, but is fully operational and functions as intended. This item may be a floor model or store return that has been used. See the seller’s listing for full details and description of any imperfections. See all condition definitions- opens in a new window or tab ... Read moreabout the condition Number of Strings: 5
Body Style: Banjo Brand: VEGA
Type: Tubaphone Items Included: Case, Strings
Banjo Type: Tubaphone


I have been told that this Vega was part of the Galaxy Trading era of Vega mfg. that took place between 1979-1984 making it approx  35 years old, and brand new condition.There is an interesting story behind this banjo.  I found this in a Detroit pawn store, and spoke with the owner who had discovered the cache of musical instruments left behind.  In the 1970's, there was a gentleman who owned a music store in Detroit,  and he had a daughter who suffered from mental illness.  When his wife died,  he was forced to close his music store  and move the inventory home where he could care for his daughter. Some years later he passed away, and  his daughter, now adult aged, lived alone in the house.  Neighbors  would report hearing  screaming and banging from the house, but, being no one was ever hurt, she was left largely alone.  However, after enough complaints, authorities moved in to take a closer look at the situation, and found dozens of musical instrument (his inventory) completely flattened by a baseball bat.  Seems this girl had an affinity for Saxophones , believing they were out to get her, and there were dozens that had been pounded flat as a pancake !The girl was taken to a state hospital  where she could be looked after, and the pawn store owner acquired the inventory,  which he moved to his shop.  He had several saxophones hanging on the wall that appeared to have been run over by a steam roller.  This banjo was among the instruments  being saved, as she had no ill will against the friendly banjo's. So there you have it, a 35 year old time capsule Banjo, saved from a horrible fate !