Here we have a super nice Gibson (copy) banjo.
It has quite a few genuine Gibson parts, including the rim, 20-hole flathead tone ring, one piece flange, notched tension hoop, armrest, and hooks and nuts.
The tone ring is from a 60s Gibson TB-500. The original gold plating was removed from the outside, and is only visible with the ring removed. The remaining Gibson parts listed are from a 1960s chrome plated TB-100 pot assembly.
The planetary tuners are newer and chrome plated. The co-rods, geared 5th tuner and 'L' brackets are newer, nickel plated parts.
It has a full thickness 3-ply maple rim, which is finished to match the neck and resonator. I was told the rim was Gibson as well, but due to the absence of a serial number, I have no way of knowing for sure. It is at least 30 years old, according to the previous owner.
The neck and resonator are both curly maple. The neck has a rosewood fretboard with full flying eagle inlay, and medium frets. The finish work on both is definitely pro quality. The neck has what I'd describe as a full profile. Virtually no wear showing on the frets or board. The resonator has dual concentric rings.
Whoever ends up with this one will be more than pleasantly surprised at how good it sounds. I've had a lot of post-war Gibsons come through here in the past few years, and this one is a good as any of them, and better than most.
The banjo will come shipped in a newish "The Gibson" import hard case.
Reduced to $1795 + shipping.
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