Antique Zither Banjo Pre-WWI Bombay Export Rare Early John Grey Era engraved
October 11, 2025



Vintage 5-string banjo with fully engraved metal body. Stamped RELIANCE on the headstock and S. ROSE & CO, BOMBAY on the heel. Believed to be pre-WWI, possibly very late Victorian or Edwardian. Made in the UK as a colonial-era export for the Indian market. Wooden neck, slotted headstock, metal back and sides with floral engraving. John Grey trade connection likely, exact maker unknown. Wear and patina consistent with age. Exported to India by S. Rose & Co during the British Raj. Rare to find in the UK with both maker and export marks.