Gibson rb1 banjo. Great action, plays nice, sounds awesome.

Gibson rb1 banjo 1969 Gibson Resonator Banjo in Very Good Condition. Free Shipping. It has a brass tone ring and a 1-p 1976 Gibson RB 250 MASTERTONE! An ICONIC BLUEGRASS Banjo! Gibson Banjos have long been the standard for bluegrass musicians. Price: $7,900. 10 USD) 1934 Gibson RB-11 Banjo - Orig. I have two of them in my “keeper” stash and appreciate having them drift in and out. The Gibson factory at 225 Parsons Street, Kalamazoo, Michigan, ca:1940. It is my goal to provide a resource for people interested in the history of vintage banjos and also the re-creation of that desired "old" banjo tone, focusing on recordings of various banjos with different components and setups. Add a tone ring after you have saved a little longer. Price: $4,999. It features a maple neck and resonator, rosewood fretboard, 24 bracket notch tension ho Aug 28, 2011 · There was a short period of time, around 1970, that to minimize costs Gibson omitted the black dyed holly peghead overlays and actually glued a thin "Gibson" pearl logo on the plain peghead. This banjo has upgraded tuners and a Kroll 5th tuner. Not as narrow as some pre war necks. . Original vintage RB-1 Gibson banjo with Ryan Ring. ” Grant MacNeill, Banjo Specialist The same catalog claimed that the five-string banjo was “increasingly popular” and that there was “every indication that the future of this instrument will be a glorious one and that those who equip themselves to stand out as accomplished artists with the five-string banjo will profit accordingly. Price: $10,000. With shi This is one of the most sought-after of all prewar Gibson banjos — an original flathead five-string RB-3 Mastertone with a one-piece flange and the rare wreath inlay pattern. Simple appointments ma The vast majority made at the time were tenor and plectrum banjos, so most "old Gibson 5-strings" I've played up here are renecked tenor and plectrum rims. Posted By: Ceres Banjo Works | Rate Member . At some point the custom inlay pattern was done on the neck, which was originally the dot inlay. I've had both electric and acoustic guitars with this type logo, but this is the first banjo I've seen. There is some wear on the frets and a few nicks, scuffs, and scratches on the headstock and some tarnish on the hardware. The RB-1 is similar one owned by Dave Macon in that it has the same fleur-de-lis inlays and possibly shape of head-stock. Gull pattern Style 1 inlays. With the neck off, you can see some of the original blue paint on the heel cut of the neck from Gibson, ensuring it isn't a replica. A in 2010. Factory original expect, New Remo USA head, GHS Crowe Strings and a Snuffy Smith 5/8 bridge. Yes, Earl plays and endorses Gibson Banjos and that adds to their mystique, but these are fine instruments. Vintage 1965 Gibson RB-100 Banjo, that is in really great condition. Many Gibson people look down at the 250 but I feel that it is a great banjo. Components Rating: 10. The Style 150 came from the factory with a 1/4" brass hoop along with a mahogany neck and resonator with concentric rings and this one has been fitted with a Steve Ryan no-hole tone ring. The metal parts are chrome like an RB-4. factory order numbers), is a rare original five-string of the type played by Grand Ole Opry star Uncle Dave Macon; Gibson historian Joe Spann estimates that only 60 original five-string RB-1s of this type were “The flashiest five-string banjo made” was how Gibson’s 1935 catalog described the RB-11. I have a lot of love for late 40s- 60s Gibson banjos with the guitar style headstock. By the 1930, the year of this example (see Gibson banjo serial numbers vs. He has notes on it. It has a 4 screw resonator . The same catalog claimed that the five-string banjo was “increasingly popular” and that there was “every indication that the future of this instrument will be a glorious one and that those who equip themselves to stand out as accomplished artists with the five-string banjo will profit accordingly. 00 USD Shipping: 150 Posted By: Dan Wells United States, 174 s club dr, Connersville, IN, 47331 Contact Info: 7656985354 Condition of Banjo: Used - Mint Condition Type: 5-String Resonator Brand: Gibson Ad Status: Active, #105725 Item viewed 3798 times Sep 22, 2012 · The value of a 1990's instrument is that of a used banjo, not a collectable unless it were some limited edition high end instrument. For the price, a very nice intermediate banjo. in South Africa on October 20, 1939 and is the fifth RB-7 to appear in Gibson’s prewar ledgers; Joe Spann, author of “Spann’s Guide to Gibson 1902-1941“, estimates the total production of RB-7s at thirty-six units. Polliack and Co. Comes with original hardshe Pre-1938 Gibson RB-00 original five string banjo. This is a great vintage banjo for a mix of bluegrass and old time finger style playing. The neck and resonator of the banjo have been refinished since its return to Rare Late 1960s/Early 1970s Gibson RB-175 Longneck Banjo with hardshell case. Unlike most of the other Gibson banjos of the period, this one maintains the original five string neck. This example, dating to 1928 (see Gibson banjo serial numbers vs. Jimmy’s custom Top Tension Rat Rod. It’s not only a fabulous instrument to play but is as close to a museum piece as I think one could get for this first year production RB-250. And Gibson made at least a respectable effort to respond to the demand for "pre-war looking" banjos with the fiddle peghead, Style 75 inlay, thinner frets, two piece 3 days ago · Gibson GB-4 1922 Banjo 6 String. Price: $3,850. Original dog-ear Grover tuners and original friction peg for 5th. Excellent condition. Gibson RB 250 Mastertone 1986 MAHOGANY. 5 String! Used - Very Good Condition / Country: United States - State: MD Last Updated 1/18/2025. #666-1 was shipped to H. Originally the "100" referred to its price point. Serial#9597-12. 39 USD) 1934 Gibson RB-11 Banjo - Orig. Neck is all original and in great shape. But I've also heard from folks that worked in music shops during the time frame that Gibson got extremely inconsistent with the quality of the banjos they were producing from the 70s and into the early 80s. Nov 29, 2024 · 1939 TB-00 Gibson banjo Pre War Converted 5 string Used - Very Good Condition Posted 11/27/2024 1:14:39 PM by aspitalnick - Country: United States - State: GA - ZIP: 30082 Oct 2, 2024 · The 1970 redesign of Gibson banjos returned to a full thickness rim, even if it was a high number of plies -- after all, at that time Vega and Ode were using around 10 plies. DATE: CIRCA 1937. This Truly Excellent Conversion was Built by Jim Yarboro of Gunbarrel City, Texas, in June, 1992 as a family birthday gift to their father. It is currently setup with a 5 string string conversion neck made by Tom Nechville with its "flux capacitor" design making it extremely easy to change the neck angle on this instrument. Jan 8, 2009 · I love the inlays on this banjo. The neck is very well made. The world's largest used banjo inventory. It features an 11" rim with a simple brass hoop tone-rin Gibson UB-1 Banjo Uke 1925 - a totally cool 1 family owned example for nearly 100 years. Action is low with a 5/8' Snuffy Smith Bridge. Gibson introduced the RB-75 Mastertone in 1937; the company’s catalog of that year described their five-string, or “regular”, banjo offerings as representing “The ‘old time’ banjo brought up to date by Gibson” and claimed that “this instrument is the most beautiful of all banjos in the hands of an artist”, with the player provided “extra twang and ring in a Gibson Regular Jan 19, 2024 · The RB 100 was the "entry" level Gibson resonator banjo after WWII and to the end of its production. 00: 1930s Gibson TB-00 Banjo - Tim Davis Neck SOLD 1999 Gibson RB-6 Banjo (Sale Pending) Price: $5,500. I'm selling all of my instruments to fund the purchase of a prewar RB1, so this has got to go! This RB5 is a special instrument, created just a few years after Gibson reissue 1965 Gibson RB-100 Banjo Price: $1,750. Oct 26, 2016 · The sound of this banjo is absolutely amazing. No need for a new banjo, just slowly make the RB better. 00: 1930s Gibson TB-00 Banjo - Tim Davis Neck Early 30's Gibson 5-String TB1 to RB1 Conversion Banjo. $7,900. Its in very good condition for its years with little wear to the brass frets and no grooving to the ebony board. I also really dig the eagle inlay on the back of the resonator. This banjo can hold its own in any musical setting and has This banjo appears in Gibson’s shipping ledger as having been shipped on April 23, 1943 to Fred Walker, proprietor of Walker Music in Baltimore, Maryland; it was recorded under the factory order number which appears on the back of the peghead, #E2791-3, and was identified as an RB-7 even though it does not conform entirely to standard specifications for that model. I got this banjo from Jim Britton. 00 USD Shipping: Buyer Pays Shipping Posted By: turtlehillbanjo United States, MD, 21037 Contact Info: 5702695330 Condition of Banjo: Used - Excellent Condition More Info on this Banjo Type: 5-String Resonator Brand: Gibson Ad Status: Active, #106520 Item viewed 2071 times 5-String Banjo--Charming Clancy Mullins Gibson Conversion from RB-150 to RB-250 1964 Gibson RB-175 Banjo Serial # 158012With a long-neck design inspired by Pete Seeger's Vega banjos, home-made long necks, and his unique playing style, the Gibson RB-175 was introduced in 1962 and saw production for a period of 10 years. It plays well up and down the neck. Browse By Brand; Browse By Type; For Sale: Gibson RB-100 from 1964 (sold) Nice RB-100, with upgraded tuners and For Sale: 1951 Gibson RB-150 w/Ryan Ring w/Video This 1951 original 5-string RB-150 serial number 6510 51 is in fantastic condition. “This banjo was originally shipped on May 28, 1937 to H. 1964 Gibson RB-175 Long Neck Interested in buying this banjo? to arrange purchase. ” Gibson could well be accused of RB-Granada #9530-1 dates to 1930 (see Gibson banjo serial numbers vs.   Of course, for an At least one other banjo from this lot, #9527-18 (see Gibson banjo serial numbers vs. We are living in a remarkable time for banjos - a banjo renaissance. Cell/Text Steve at 615. Played for 15 years on a weekly basis. 95. ; fretboard inlaid with mother of pearl hearts and flowers; 38 in. There are a couple of screw holes where there were once strap buttons (see pics). The cut Mastertone This Gibson banjo started its life as a tenor banjo (TB-2) made in Kalamazoo, Michigan in 1926. Back of neck and resonator have been re-finished and new binding The world's largest used banjo inventory. 2005 I think anyway see serial number in pic on the ring is 18 0504 02. Original mid-1930's Gibson 5-string banjo with 3-ply Maple rim, pot metal tension hoop and one-piece flange. Get a warmer tone with reduced 'snap' with this Gibson banjo, equipped with mahogany neck. $5,499. This one appears to have all original parts except the head and fifth string tuner. Condition is good. 00 USD Shipping: 150 Posted By: Dan Wells United States, 174 s club dr, Connersville, IN, 47331 Contact Info: 7656985354 Condition of Banjo: Used - Mint Condition Type: 5-String Resonator Brand: Gibson Ad Status: Active, #105725 Item viewed 4126 times Hello,I'm selling a great sounding and playing 1992 Gibson RB-1 and it's original "The Gibson" HSC. It is, however in good shape and the neck was playing fine when removed from a SOLD 1930 GIBSON TB-2 PRE WAR CONVERSION Price: $5,700. Amazing action, very easy to playand the sound is wonderful. One of the flashier banjos constructed with gold hardware, a stunning sunburst. Rare Late 1960s/Early 1970s Gibson RB-175 Longneck Banjo with hardshell case. Grover presto tailpiece, and Grover tuners on original neck. com. You may, however, May 16, 2023 · The rings are not "tube ring". 1988 Gibson RB-Granada Reissue - Greg Rich Era Excellent- condition - new Remo head, Shubb sliding capo removed (holes filled) and 5th string capo spikes installed at 7 and 9. As the top of the line Gibson banjo line, it was not an economical purchase on re-release or in the pre-war period. Rare instrument Almost the only market remaining for the five-string banjo was among string-band musicians of the rural southeast, and it’s therefore not surprising that RB-1 #213-10, dating to 1930 (see Gibson banjo serial numbers vs. It is a great banjo for someone looking for Gibson quality, but may not have the funds for a higher end banjo. Jun 17, 2019 · Peghead Nation banjo instructor Bill Evans recently acquired a 1931 Gibson RB-1 that not only has a known provenance, but even includes photos and other documentation. Paid by buyer. Those of you who follow the “True Crime” section of Bluegrasstoday. 'Robin Smith banjo neck for Gibson Mastertone' 28 min 'Flight of Eagles' 40 min '"Gibson" Style 3 Neat/Huber' 1 hr 'Matt Arcara 12” Open Back' 1 hr Jun 3, 2008 · ARCHIVED TOPIC: Gibson RB-100 Banjo 1975. It comes with its original “The Gibson” HSC, plays and sounds great. 00 for it. From 1937 through 1941, Gibson shipped 28 top-tension five-strings, and I believe only 2 of these were of the most expensive RB-18. Overall Comments. All tuners work well and hold tune. I am the second owner. 5 String! Used - Very Good Condition Posted 9/20/2024 7:20:26 AM by turtlehillbanjo - Country: United States - State: MD - ZIP: 21037 Last Updated 1/18/2025 1:05:29 PM. This is a factory original Gibson RB-1 banjo. Has a shubb 5th string capo. Add to Cart. This listing has ended. The copper flashed gold plating on a mahogany banjo is new for Gibson and I think should have been done as a regular production banjo long ago. Used - Excellent Condition #9411-1 is a historically significant and possibly unique banjo. I think from the research i've done maybe this makes it produced between 1974 and 1975? Gibson RB-00 Pre War Original Five String with Full Thickness Rim Price: $3,900. Neck was made by Jim Decava noted luthier who worked at one time for Liberty Banjo. With a full Mastertone style resonator and flange but a plain bras Gibson RB-100 Bowtie Banjo with all its original tuners in excellent shape! The mahogany neck and body are in great shape, almost no fret wear. The Mastertone line was revived in 1954 with the introduction of style 250; style 800 was added to the line in 1964 and was the first gold-plated, engraved Gibson banjo model of the postwar period, as well as marking the first time Gibson attempted to The world's largest used banjo inventory. It has some signs of use & wear, but that is due to age. SEE VIDEO: 4 days ago · Gibson GB-4 1922 Banjo 6 String. I think the primary changes were: 3-ply maple rim replaced the painted rim of inferior quality, 1-piece flange replaced the 2-piece (tube and plate) flange. Dec 28, 2007 · Now days its really hard to find a used Gibson RB-100. Feb 11, 2013 · The Gibson Mastertone banjo sound was birthed with pre-war Gibson banjos when Earl Scruggs took to the Opry stage with Bill Monroe. BigWoolyBanjo - Posted - 12/28/2007: 15:43:05 Gibson is the worse at telling you about anything made before yesterday or the day before. 4 days ago · Gibson GB-4 1922 Banjo 6 String. Fiddle peghead with old-style Gibson script inlay and flourish. No evidence of re-plating or re-finish work. Customer Service: 9. beautiful banjo. Mine will overpower most banjos I play with. Uncut label, original nickel plated hardware. The models during this time frame were the RB-1, (Straight Maple) RB-2, (Walnut) RB-3, (Mahogany), RB-75 (Mahogany) RB-4 (Burl Walnut) and the Granada (Curly Maple). The majority of 1930s style 3 banjos had leaves and bows inlays, while a few featured the flying eagle pattern and a handful were made with the wreath pattern. Overall Here's a great example of a vintage Gibson banjo!This 60's Gibson RB-100 sounds great and feels great to play! It has a warm, woody tone with great attack and a quick sustain. and your parents played those, so [just like today] the kids wanted their own Gibson is the worse at telling you about anything made before yesterday or the day before. Rare Late 1960s/Early 1955 Gibson RB-100 Left-Hand Mod Gloss Sunburst Finish Resonator 5-String Banjo 1934 Gibson RB-11 Banjo - Orig. 00 EUR ($1,575. Used Gibson RB-6 in good condition with original case. Great action, plays nice, sounds awesome. Of all vintage fretted instruments, one of the hardest items to find is an authentic origi Nov 29, 2024 · 1934 Gibson RB-11 Banjo - Orig. 8366. Everything on this banjo stands out. Plain rosewood fretboard with just dots, and gibson is in yellow, not pear inlay. The banjo was shipped on July 9, 1936 to the Charles Music Company (location unknown); the Charles Music Company returned the banjo to Gibson and it was 2000 Gibson RB 250 Five-String Resonator Banjo with hardshell case. Gibson UB-1 Banjo Uke 1925 - a totally cool 1 family owned example for nearly 100 years. Excellent condition - curly maple neck, rosewood board, gull-wing style MOP inlay, straight grain maple resonator, 3-ply maple rim, one-piece 'Gibson USA' flange, original rolled brass tone hoop has been replaced with a 20-hole flathead tone ring (most likely a Sullivan), all nickel plated hardware, Presto tailpiece, 5-Star tuners. All nickel hardware, including the 5-string tension hoop, is original to the banjo. factory order numbers), the specifications for style 1 included a pot metal one-piece flange and three-ply maple rim with nickel-plated hardware and a dark-finished maple neck and resonator; there was white 1992 Gibson RB-1 With Original “The Gibson” Case (Greg Rich Era) Price: $2,400. 00 EUR ($1,569. The tonering is stamped on the lip not the face - which I think was done with some of the Crowe rings (that may account for the awesome tone on this one). New Price $11,995. I am the third o Vintage 1957 Gibson RB-100 (w/ HSC) Here we have a Vintage 1957 Gibson RB-100 Banjo!! This is one of the oldest and most recognized brands in Music today. I have always wanted a banjo with the old Gibson sound that everyone loves and now I have one. They only made a few hundred 5 string neck banjos prior to 1941. 5 String! Price: $7,900. factory order numbers) but, like many higher-end Gibson instruments, remained unsold at the factory for a number of years. 00 USD. This is a 2001 Gibson RB-250 with all original parts (except the armrest, it's a joke, happy to replace it with a brand-new one). 1999 Gibson Earl Scruggs 5 String Banjo Signed By Scruggs Lewis & Fairchild W/OHSC. Gibson Mastertone Model RB-4 Five-String Banjo One of 10 made, 1930 Figured walnut body with bone edge binding, 13 3/4 in. As such it would likely sell for 50% to 90% of it's original or current new value depending on condition. What a shame for a company that made some of the best guitars, mandolins, and banjos to become so uncaring. Mahogany resonator with white/black/white concentric rings. This punchy and loud banjo has a flame maple neck with ebony fingerboard, flame maple resonator and has been well cared for with little to medium play wear mainly in the form of scuffing of the banjo head and slight oxidation on the hardware. It's a great time to upgrade your home music studio gear with the largest selection at eBay. 1968 150 Pot1969 RB250 Mastertone NeckComes with Really nice Crossrock Banjo CaseNew Stainless Steel Fatboy FretsFingerboard has been leveledNeck has been resetSecond Coordinator Rod has been addedTo Gibson Factory Order Number 1288-1 RARE 1936 original RB-3 prewar flathead original 5-string! One-piece flange, heavy weight high-profile 20 hole flathead tone ring and 5-string tension hoop. May 4, 2022 · The frets are freshly dressed and the truss rod works as it should. Prewar Gibson Banjos. One of the inlays was a little high, though. $1,494. Includes original case. 1964 Gibson RB-175 Long Neck Banjo ! Pete Seeger ! Style 1 was a mainstay of Gibson’s lower-end, non-Mastertone banjo line from the 1920s through World War II. Will post serial number and more pics. Made in the USA, Gibson's Kalamazoo Factory. It plays and sounds great (and LOUD) and there's still plenty of meat left on those big old Gibson frets. 1930 Gibson TB2 to RB2 Pre-War Conversion. 00 USD Shipping: USPS, UPS, Fed-Ex, International as well. It was repatriated to the good old U. S. Maple neck and resonator with original 1/4″-rod tone ring. 1 owner - bought new in 1999. Used – Excellent. With the neck off, you can see some of the original blue paint on the heel cut of the neck from Gibson, ensuring it isn't a Gibson Banjo, 1932 RB-1 Original Pre War 5-string. , Ltd. 99. Feb 22, 2014 · The banjo was imported to South Africa in 1991 by the father of the previous owner as a gift for him. Aug 30, 2010 · I believe Gibson made improvements to the RB-250 in the late 80's ('88 maybe?). For sale is a Gibson RB-1 banjo. Originally $4,775, now $3,900 ($875 Greg Rich era Gibson RB1 reissue. The banjo retains its original 1/4" brass hoop and hardware with a modern Presto tailpiece. Appearance Rating: 9. Price: $2,599. Please note this is an archived topic, so it is locked and unable to be replied to. For Sale: 1957 Gibson RB-100 w/Video. Gibson recognized the impending popularity of the tenor banjo as early Interested in buying this banjo? to arrange purchase. Crowe. It’s Just That GOOD! Excellent condition. 1955 RB100 with Huber vintage tone ring and Snuffy Smith bridge. Heralding a 48-star American flag, and getting into full swing before the War years, Gibson’s signage (on both the left and right face of the building) boasts “guitars, banjos, mandolins, violins, music, and strings. Alls right and good otherwise. com might be familiar with this banjo and its bizarre story, but if not, take a minute and give this article a read. This is a great sounding example of an unmodified RB-00. This vintage RB-100 dates to 1954 with serial number 4-2465-50. Style 100 was a budget-model instrument whose lineage could be traced to the prewar style 00; style 150 was essentially the same banjo but was dressed up with most of the same cosmetic appointments (with the exception of a Mastertone block and a bound peghead) that would be Ever since, the pre-war Gibson Flathead banjo has been THE axe of choice for the bluegrass banjo player. The Gibson RB-100 is a 5 String, resonator banjo which offers a wide range of musical expressions. Neck has original frets, 2-tab tuners, 5th peg and pip. This one has the smaller brass tone hoop that gives the banjo an archtop appearance. The banjo was shipped to my house within two weeks of me delivering it to them. These are no longer made and playable ORIGINAL ones are next to impossible to find!  Now's your chance! This is a strong playing. The laminated maple resonator and rim of this Gibson 5 string banjo provides improved tone and volume for superior performance. This is a original 5 string Gibson 1931 to 34. Style 1 was one of Gibson’s lower-end banjo models, lacking the heavy brass tone ring found in the Mastertone models. Very easy to play. Components Rating: not This banjo is an original 5 string banjo! The 5 string neck has been stripped of its original blue color and is finished exposing its natural maple grain. While the other four banjos in lot #10 appear in Gibson’s factory ledgers as tenor-necked style 3 banjos, all shipped in May 1937, #10-1 is not listed; it’s possible that this banjo was picked up directly at the factory, or it might have been shipped later and listed as an RB-75 with no factory order number recorded. Mar 8, 2020 · English: Gibson RB-1 (1933), RB-00 (1940), PB-3 (1929) banjos at the American Banjo Museum. This is a fine banjo from A to Z. 00: 1930s Gibson TB-00 Banjo - Tim Davis Neck Interested in buying this banjo? to arrange purchase. - Posted - 08/24/2014: 14:35:51 In todays world of conversions and soup up after market parts Mastertones an all original RB is the ultimate as I see it. Components. $2,399 USD. They don’t makeEm this good anymore. When I received my RB-3 I was, and I still am, impressed with the sweetness of the tone. Banjo plays really well with good low action. We are selling it 'as described". We will start with the pre war Gibson banjo. 330. It does have some player wear as you can see in the pictures. 00: 1930s Gibson TB-00 Banjo - Tim Davis Neck. Customer Service: 2. Add a tone ring. factory order numbers), surfaced in 2020 in Reidsville, North Carolina; the banjo is reported to have spent most of its life Gibson Mastertone TB 3 1927 No Hole Conversion Bluegrass Resonator banjo with Gibson Factory RB 800 neck. $3,199. Belt buckle wear on back of resonator. Vintage 1960s Gibson RB-100 Open Back 5-String Banjo Archtop Dot Inlays 59845 Up for sale we have a Vintage 1960s Gibson RB-100 Open Back 5-String Banjo. The Banjo Warehouse stocks a wide range of Gibson banjos, including pre-war, vintage, and relatively recent styles, through the last Gibson banjos produced in 2010. GIBSON RB – 1 BANJO. it plays and sounds great too. overall; the original ZAMAK flange cracked, but retained with the instrument. This banjo is 33 years old and shows no signs of wear and tear. Made in 1927, you can tell is 97 years old, but it still plays great and is just great to have such an instrument in your hands. The RB-100 was Gibson's midline banjo model in the 1950's and 60's. Its very light and has good volume. Up for sale is my favorite banjo, a 2001 Gibson RB5, bought from the estate of a bluegrass picker in New Jersey. Neck and action is good. It really allows me to pick it hard and fast with a clear tone and alot of volume. It plays true up and down the neck and rings throughout. Made in 1932 by Gibson of Kalamazoo, Michigan, this instrument is a rare “RB” model. There is some paint / finish Interested in buying this banjo? to arrange purchase. This custom Banjo consist of a 1967 or 68 bowtie neck, 1950s RB -150 resonator, 2000s RB rim with brass hoop, Grover vintage tuners, Prucha top tension flange and stretcher, top tension armrest and clamshell tailpiece. Made in the period when Gibson was making the transition from the two-piece flanges and fiddle-shaped pegheads of the 1920s to the one-piece flanges and double-cut pegheads more commonly associated with the 1930s, this banjo combines the then-new one-piece flange with the older fiddle-shaped peghead and style 3 diamonds and May 5, 2012 · If I had kept the banjo I would have added one. 00 USD Shipping: Buyer Pays Shipping Posted By: turtlehillbanjo United States, MD, 21037 Contact Info: 5702695330 Condition of Banjo: Used - Very Good Condition More Info on this Banjo Type: 5-String Resonator Brand: Gibson Ad Status: Active, #106447 Item viewed 2647 times Gibson RB 18 top tension 2005 Price: $7,400. Comes with OHSC. 00 USD Shipping: Buyer pays packing and shipping Posted By: David Wadsworth United States, Kingsport, TN, 37664 Condition of Banjo: Used - Excellent Condition Type: 5-String Resonator Brand: Gibson Ad Status: Active, #107662 Item viewed 1351 times May 13, 2019 · RB 100s are reaching ridiculous prices, all out of proportion to perfectly serviceable tone ring banjos. Originally $1,495, now $1,150 ($345 price drop) $1,495. Reliability. Single co-rod construction inside. factory order numbers), is also known to have a Mastertone label although its inlay pattern is the conventional style 1 fleur-de-lis design. Normal use - gold plating is worn in places and resonator has minor scratches. Two truss rods. Sep 23, 2023 · I just picked up this rb1 from a guitar center (online), and paid 1199. This Gibson RB-250 Mastertone is a wonderful banjo with 46 years of history and easily will last well into the next century. RB 100s are often used as platforms for "upgrades" to tone ring banjos; project banjos in other words. Banjo production had already decreased dramatically from its peak in the 1920s, and in the wartime period Gibson employees would sometimes search factory inventory for any remaining parts from which banjos could be assembled, even if the resulting instruments Gibson RB 100/ 1954. Remember that we nearly always have several Gibson banjos in stock that haven’t yet made it to our website listings. The banjo is in great condition. The instrument currently has on a replacement neck but original neck is included. After the hiatus caused by World War II, Gibson resumed banjo production in the late 1940s with the new non-Mastertone styles 100 and 150. It has a littermate which was shipped on the same day (#1288-2) which still resides in South Africa. They claimed the new top tension feature would revolutionize the banjo, but then Jazz became popular and all but killed the banjo. The condition of this banjo is remarkable, as is the original green lined case and the original hang tags. The fiddle shaped peghead is also a must for me when buying a Gibson. The original rim is in the banjo, it does not have the tone hoop and it has been cut for the Huber ring. in Johannesburg, South Africa. It's made with a Maple rim and resonator, a Mahogany neck, and a Rosewood fingerboard. Aug 24, 2014 · Did some of those rb1's have "The Gibson" inlayed on the peghead? O. This one's an original Gibson RB-00 and it's all there save for a newer head, old refret job, newer bridge, replacement tailpiece, and the finish on the back of the neck. The Gibson Banjo holds a strong Legacy and a Special place in the Hearts of Bluegrass Musicians Worldwide. The orginal resonator is in ne 1954 Gibson RB-250. It’s a player grade banjo that has been previously loved. Original 5-string mahogany neck. Gibson RB-250 Mastertone 5 String Banjo 549 Mar 4, 2014 · This is an excellent banjo featuring what I think is the best tonering Gibson offers, the J. The only people I know that still have them are famous banjo players. Two other examples from lot 9527 are known with the diamonds and squares pattern as seen here. Original tab tuners in older pre war case. This is as good as I've ever owned just phasing out of banjos and I bought a high end guitar so this one goes-reluctantlyI am the 2nd owner original paper work shown along with accessories pictured. It has the normal thin rim. The RB-250 was a latter-day incarnation of The Mastertone, following WWII, more toward the Korean War era. This banjo has everything going for it. I am absolutely certain that everything on the banjo is as it was delivered from Gibson. The neck has After the hiatus caused by World War II, Gibson resumed banjo production in 1948 with two models, both non-Mastertones. The brand in the banjo is "The Gibson" proof of the age and testament of time of this instrument. Most banjophobics and luthiers will agree that the early 3 ply hard rock maple rims that Gibson used up till about 1963/64 were major contributers to the quality (Used) Gibson Copy RB-1 Banjo This Gibson Copy RB-1 Banjo is Very Good condition. €1,500. Before TV, almost everyone played a musical instrument at home: pianos were big business but they weren`t portable…. All other parts 100% Original. Used – Very Good. I’m selling a lightweight and powerful Greg Rich Era 1992 Gibson RB-1. Headstock is the fiddle shaped one. This Gibson RB-3 five-string from 1925 is a rare piece, as is any five-string banjo from the era dominated by tenor banjos. This is #170-4. Item is Pre-owned, but it was well taken care of by previous owner. This is a nice example of a "Folk Boom" era Gibson 5 string banjo. Used - Very Good Condition / Country: Germany Last Updated 1/20/2025. I've heard my fair share. There was a slightly fancier looking model 150 and the full tone ring 250 model a few years later. This means that these banjos were made prior to 1947. Polliack & Company, Ltd. This beautiful art deco inspired banjo was Gibsons top of the line banjo back in the late 1930s, albeit short lived. Originally $1,495, now $1,150 ($345 price drop) Aug 13, 2010 · Typically the Gibson banjos from about 1965 through all of the 1970s and into the early to mid 1980s were not banjos that were constructed very well. Comes with its original case. But it’s more important as a representative of one of Gibson’s first steps in a desperate attempt to develop a competitive banjo. Gibson RB-75 Vintage lacquer serial # 1, the banjo is near mint, comes with certificate of authenticity, the warranty card which has never been filled out, Gibson case, this banjo is serial #1 of 15 Gibson built right before they stopped building banjos altogether. Feb 10, 2012 · i have a Gibson RB-100 , serial number 394957 with made in USA stamped on the headstock. ” Gibson could well be accused of Up for sale is a rare reissue Gibson RB-18 top tension banjo. For $1000 or UNDER I agree you'd be better off with a USED Asian tone ring banjo. Gibson did use tube rings, but these rings are "rolled brass tonerings", solid brass, not a hollow tube. If you are a neck aficionado, this neck will not do, especially if you are used to the necks that Frank Neet and I build as it is a little wider than pre war specifications, the inlay is a little offish (hand cut, but in inlay was installed nicely) and this neck has a steel bar in it, not an adjustable truss rod. On closer examination I found it is brown but thin. Comes with original tuners and tailpiece. Gibson RB-00 Model 5 String Banjo (1940), made in Kalamazoo, Michigan, serial # F559-1, sunburst lacquer finish, maple rim and resonatorn maple neck with rosewood fingerboard, period black hard shell case. Every Banjo we sell receives a professional setup in our shop. Comes with a non original hard case. Here's your chance to own a completely original Pre-War Gibson Banjo! This is the most original Pre-war Banjo I have seen. View similar gear from other sellers Gibson shipped fifty-two banjos to Oppleman between 1935 and 1943, the majority of them five-strings, including RB-00 #E2789-2; Oppleman would also be the first dealer to receive a postwar Gibson banjo, an RB-100 shipped on July 1, 1948. SERIAL NUMBER: REMOVED LABEL DETAILS: THE GIBSON, GIBSON INC, KALAMAZOO MICH. Gibson RB-100 Model 5 String Resonator Banjo #907367 (1969), made in Kalamazoo, Michigan,  sunburst lacquer finish, mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard. Banjo plays smooth and is loud. Some wear and tea. This is not a “parts” banjo or a conversion. ” With the United States’ entry into World War II, wartime material restrictions meant that no new banjo hardware could be manufactured. Factory order # 9691-27. I grabbed it because its serial number puts it at 1964 and saw (in pics} that it had that it had a good brown rim. Style 11 was Gibson’s attempt to dress up a lower-priced banjo through the use of pearloid decorated with red and black silkscreened designs on the back of the resonator as well as the fingerboard and peghead, along with a colored finish on the rim, the sides of the resonator, and the back of the neck. Has newer tuners including Skruggs Keith tuners. See customer service section above. See pics for close-ups. There are some finish dings on the peghead and a couple spots on the neck that are scrapped. Light weight and powerful, Factory original state except for a new Remo USA head, 5/8 Snuffy Smith Bridge and GHS JD Crowe Studio Strings. L. D. Posted By: Ceres Banjo Works United States, TN, Condition of Banjo: Used - Excellent Condition Type: 5-String Resonator Brand: Gibson Ad Status: Active, #108073 Item viewed 564 times Interested in buying this banjo? to arrange purchase. This Gibson banjo is a c For Sale or Trade: 1992 Gibson RB-1 With Original “The Gibson” Case (Greg Rich Era) I’m selling a lightweight and powerful Greg Rich Era 1992 Gibson RB-1. This is a well taken care of, good action and everything performs the way it should on this 70 year old Banjo. Known among banjo aficionados as the Grace Attfield banjo, this RB-1 is also one of the most pristine Golden Era Gibson banjos around, and in this video, Bill demonstrates it in Prewar 1930 Gibson RB-1 5 string Banjo. 16 USD) 1934 Gibson RB-11 Banjo - Orig. So,the reason I was reviewing the archives was to help me make a decision as to whether or not to install a heavy tone ring. This banjo is an original 5 string banjo! The 5 string neck has been stripped of its original blue color and is finished exposing its natural maple grain. Not too fancy, not too plain. The differences between these banjo are cosmetic on the one hand, on the other hand the RB-100 has a mahogany neck, maple resonator; the RB has a maple neck and a maple resonator; also the 1990s RB-1 all maple. Aug 1, 2011 · There's no doubt that there were some GREAT 70s Gibson banjos that got produced. A new head, properly tensioned offers that classic Gibson Banjo “Cluck”. Fast & Free shipping on many items! Nov 5, 2009 · The folks at Gibson were very friendly and most important of all, they fixed everything that needed fixing and gave me a free factory setup as well (I did not expect this!). I got NO history on this and NO help from them at all. 1927 Gibson PB-1 4 String Banjo with Hard Case! Great instrument, and a piece of musical history. Great deals on Gibson Banjos. ” Gibson could well be accused of Dec 4, 2008 · There is a reason Gibson banjos have a great reputation. The primary problem were the rims. Ive read that Gibson had thicker brown rims before the black ones Interested in buying this banjo? to arrange purchase. Diam. Light weight, great dynamic range, volume and projection and about 3lbs lighter than a flat head tonering. kfe wmvicr auwae blosgg fbi yoqoe ffpueuw abrvej nizwrp twepnbx