34.      $1000

Elmer Stennes weight-driven banjo, 1972.  Here is a 33-inch all-wood banjo from Mr. Stennes that I have not seen before and can find no other examples or sales.  It is stamped “4” on the case parts, suggesting that there are at least three others out there, and “M.C.I.P.” is stamped along the bottom of the cherry case, indicating that it was made while in prison for killing his wife.  Also stamped on the bottom right glue block in the box is the number 72, indicating the year of manufacture.  The painted dial is signed, including the logo bumblebee at the bottom, the 8-day time-only movement is signed as well, with the number “5”.  The dial glass is slightly convex.  There is a lead weight, a small weight shield, and a tie-down and crank.  It is running without issue.  Most notably, there is a signed letter written in pen, addressed to his “Kids” from October 1973, letting them know he will be in Ft. Lauderdale and noting the hotel.  He says he will be there with “his new little chicken” (Phyllis Means, who he married in December of that year).  Both were shot two years later, allegedly by his son, and Elmer died.  The assumption here is that this was a clock he gave to one of his four kids, as the letter came with the clock.  Stennes banjos sell for $1000-$1800.