A reader writes:

We were cleaning out my in laws attic and came across a 8 string banjo I think
It is very old and is about 23" long
The drum so to speak is 10 1/2"
Wood is light on back and dark on face with a star in top

I would be interested if you have any info on something thoughts on this piece.

I don't know how to identify this

--------------------------Our reply -----------------------------

If you reply to this message and send photos as attachments, I can give you a more precise answer, but based on info you sent me so far, I would say you probably have a Mandolin/banjo. That is the neck, tuners, and strings are the same as a mandolin, but with a banjo body. In the 1890s, mandolin was more popular than guitar and banjo put together. By the 1910s, though, banjo became more popular. So mandolin players looking for a banjo sound went to these instruments.

They've never really gone out of production, and you can get a new off-brand one today for under $200, so the thing wouldn't probably be that interesting to musicians, unless it's in great, playable condition or is a vintage name brand (say Gibson, Martin, or Washburn - they used to make great mandolins in this country).

Best of luck - Paul