how to identify the model of my 1880s lyon and healy parlor guitar

This instrument incorporated patents taken out by William D Bowen who sold the manufacturing rights to Lyon & Healy. It is interesting to note that this firm made zither banjos probably for export to England as some were advertised in the “for sale” columns of the fretted instrument press of the day and for a time S A Halfpenny (the notable English zither banjo virtuoso) played a Lyon & Healy instrument.Īt one time Lyon & Healy stress that every part of the “Washburn” banjos –brackets, pegs, rims, fingerboards etc. In March 1922 they were offering the patented “ Van Eps Recording Banjo ” - “with the internal resonator and outward curved dowel or cross piece” but made it clear that they were only the distributors and not the makers. Shipping is $70, insured to Continental US only, or Free local pickup.ĭue to strict CITES regulations, this Cannot be shipped out of US.They appeared to cease manufacturing during the depression.

Comes with original case cosmetically poor to fair condition (some separation as shown in pics, you may be able restore it and glue the peeling cover back down, and the key hole button is loose, maybe you can re-attach it, I didn't try yet). Great for finger picking and also fine for strumming with a pick - see the you tube link here (with apologies for my off-the-cuff playing!). Good bass and treble response, well balanced and versatile. Like me, this guitar is smaller but still loud -). The 0-28 comparisons are MANY $ thousands more. This model and vintage is considered tonally and structurally the same as Martin 0-28, within half inch of same size with same Brazilian Rosewood back and sides) and this one is no exception. Any Washburn guitar gurus, feel free to weigh in.įor $1,950 it’s great playing and resonant instrument. (age guesstimate from online shows same model sold by Folkway Music, listed as c. String height is just under 2/16th inch at 12th fret, nut width is 1 13/16', scale length is 23 7/8', width at lower bout is 13' and depth is 3 3/4'. The quality of his restoration is nothing less than exceptional. This was fully restored by master luthier Bill Tippin, including replacing bridge plate, re-gluing top braces, hand made ebony bridge in original period style, planed fret board and correct re-fret. There is a minor chip in the headstock and some playing wear on the spruce top, only surface and minor, especially considering its age. In very good condition, especially considering its age and is crack-free. Stenciled spruce top, X-braced, beautiful Brazilian rosewood back & sides. Very rare Washburn 5203 Deluxe Concert guitar, circa 1925-1928.

How to identify the model of my 1880s lyon and healy parlor guitar