This banjo was just at the Joe Val festival, where it was played by many great banjo players. It received very complimentary reviews and is an incredible value in a professional quality instrument.
The Dow Wilbur banjo was a collaboration of Bill Stokes and Robin Smith, two of the great banjo craftsmen out there. Six of them were built in late 2002 and early 2003. This is number 5.
The goal was to replicate as closely as possible the original pre-war style 3 flathead owned by Dow Wilbur that was a litter mate to Crowe's no-hole flathead, "banger". Alloy was taken and analyzed and a no-hole ring was developed, matching the original ring as close as possible. 80+ year old mahogany, dating to the 1930s, was procured for the necks with old Brazilian rosewood used for the fingerboards. Timeless Timber provided by Bill was used for the 3 ply rim and resonator sidewalls, both of which were made by Jimmy Cox. All of the reproduction hardware was made by Jimmy Cox. Robin did all of the necks and finish work as well as final assembly and set-up.
I know that a lot of folks have tried, but I have not seen more effort expended to try a replicate one of the best banjos of all time, than this example. This banjo sold in 2002 for $4200 which would translate to $5000+ in today's money. I am offering this rare banjo which is in very excellent condition with it's original hardshell case for $3800. Do a search of "Dow Wilbur" on the hangout to see what the few folks who have had a chance to play one of these banjo say about them. I think this is a rare opportunity for someone to own an interesting and worthwhile piece of banjo history.
I have just completed a thorough cleaning and complete set-up of this banjo and I can say that it plays and sounds fantastic. Strong, deep tone with plenty of crack. Remarkably lively yet with great decay. No one would be disappointed with this banjo in any way. The banjo seems to be 100% original right down to the Showcase bridge, with the exception of 1 tuner screw and a missing tailpiece cover. Satisfaction is completely guaranteed...Bill
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