Oddities and Rarities from the Elderly Collection

A look at some of the unique instruments in Elderly’s extensive collection including a Gibson harp guitar, a fretless upright bass made from a bass drum, and more.

By: Elderly Instruments

September 8, 2017

One of the reasons people shop at Elderly Instruments – in addition to our world-class selection of stringed instruments and top-notch customer service – is the chance to check out unique items you won’t find anywhere else.

See more great guitars, mandolins, banjos, fiddle, dobros, and ukuleles at Elderly.com.

Stringing up a 1937 Martin D-18 | Elderly Instruments

Elderly Instruments' repair shop manager Joe Konkoly puts the final touches on a recent vintage guitar restoration.

Quarantine Update from Stan Werbin | Elderly Instruments

Elderly Instruments is open for business online, and founder Stan Werbin gives you the lowdown on how you can get your instruments, accessories, and more.

What is a Cittern? | Elderly Instruments

Elderly’s Chris Rietz demonstrates a Nyberg Short Scale Cittern, and discusses the instrument’s history and playability, and how to best use it in folk music.

Martin D-28CWB Clarence White Commemorative Edition (2002) | Elderly Instruments

A special edition copy of White's modified 1935 D-28, with an Adirondack spruce top, Brazilian rosewood back and sides, large soundhole, and more.

Weber Bitterroot F20-O Octave Mandolin | Elderly Instruments

A beautiful octave mandolin with a traditional F-style body, and a big, sweet sound.

S.S. Stewart Champion Presentation Banjo (1890s) | Elderly Instruments

Elderly Instruments owner Stan Werbin demonstrates a beautifully designed open-back banjo built in the 1890s.

5-String Banjo Round Robin | Elderly Instruments

Ken Perlman, Alan Munde, Greg Cahill and Michael J. Miles play tunes and talk about the history of the banjo, different styles, and more, live at Elderly Instruments.

Elderly Instruments | 1930 Wm. C. Stahl Style 7

A look at a pre-war guitar built by the Larson Bros. in Chicago, with a 12-fret neck, Brazilian rosewood back and sides, and abalone trim.

Elderly | Martin 0, 00, 000 Comparison

Elderly’s Chris Rietz explores three common sizes of Martin guitars, playing mahogany and rosewood versions of each size.

Elderly Instruments | What is a Banjo Guitar?

Elderly’s Elden Kelly talks about the 6-string banjo and plays examples from Vega, Deering, Gold Tone, and Gretsch.