Very beautiful banjoline (banjo-mandolin) bearing the following iron marks: Schutz Marke CWHH / DRGM; dating from the 1930s. Schutz Marke means the protection of the brand while DRGM means that the product is subject to a “small imperial patent” filing. This last mention was effective between 1891 and 1952 in Germany. Thus, this banjo-mandolin was certainly manufactured during the 1930s in Germany and has the particularity of having a rim as well as a resonance skin tension system as we can see on American open back banjos. In addition, significantly less bulky than the common banjo-mandolins of this period, this banjoline is therefore quite rare and significant of a search for the evolution of this hybrid instrument which had just been born in France a few years earlier. In short, a beautiful historical witness to the desire for evolution of the banjo-mandolin in Germany during these years, but also a playable instrument, entirely carefully adjusted, with a low action and pleasant playing comfort. This banjoline will please musicians, enthusiasts and collectors. Technical characteristics: Resonance skin: Original animal skin Sides / Rim: Maple Neck: Maple Fingerboard: Rosewood Nut width: 25 mm Radius: Flat Frets: 18 frets (+1 zero fret) Scale: 321 mm Profile: C / V Country of manufacture: Germany Year: 1930's Finish: Natural Details: Reinforced skin at the top right / French bridge from a similar period / Excellent state of conservation and play / Delivered without cover Like all our instruments, this banjo-mandolin has been adjusted with great care. Thus it has super comfort of play. With a rich, dynamic, clear sound, between woody and metallic, with a nice tone and good sustain this banjo will fill musicians, enthusiasts and collectors with joy.