If this makes you feel better: The Popular was the lowest CE model and most or all of these banjos are said to have not  been made by the usual Clifford Essex luthiers. 

Banjowaif said:

Thanks Jody.

It seems a shame to see a CE banjo looking like that and, sadly, I’m not sure I could ever afford one of the better CEs. There’s a regal at £1500+.

In other words, this banjo in perfect New condition is not likely to be a better sounding or better playing banjo than it currently is. It wasn't particularly good when new.  I'm on the fence about the next model up, The Clipper. But starting with the Imperial I am a big fan of Clifford Essex banjos.

Jody Stecher said:

If this makes you feel better: The Popular was the lowest CE model and most or all of these banjos are said to have not  been made by the usual Clifford Essex luthiers. 

Banjowaif said:

Thanks Jody.

It seems a shame to see a CE banjo looking like that and, sadly, I’m not sure I could ever afford one of the better CEs. There’s a regal at £1500+.

That does put a different light on things, thanks again.