Here's a link to a much abused Stewart banjo offered on e-Bay: click here for website!

This is a higher end (Model 2) Stewart from the classic 1890's period, most likely manufactured for Sears Roebuck. The peghead ebony is beyond repair but the rest of the fingerboard seems intact, with a missing diamond shaped mother-of-pearl inlay or two. The carved heel looks nice but the foot of the heel is missing its ebony veneer. The neck looks structurally sound and is reinforced with veneers, but does show some dings. There is a lot of missing hardware but one can order a full set of brackets and other accessories from Elderly Instruments; they won't look authentic but they will be uniform and functional.

This would make a great project for a moderately skilled craftsman. I wouldn't bid more than $300 for it as is but if restored well it would be worth at least $1200.

Cheerily,
Charley Noble