AmericanGal - Posted - 10/21/2025:  16:39:06

A family friend inherited a banjo recently and is looking for an idea of what it is does it have value etc.
The internet has different ideals depending on many factors. I am going to post a few pictures.
If you know anything please weigh in. Thanks

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AmericanGal - Posted - 10/21/2025:  16:42:46

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Old Hickory - Posted - 10/21/2025:  17:04:56

Could you post photos of the front and back of the peghead and a back view of the banjo's round body (called the "pot")? Be sure any names, words or numbers inlaid,  printed or stamped anywhere are legible. Details visible on those views might help the people here who know  open back banjos to see what this is.

A Drum On A Stick - Posted - 10/21/2025:  17:22:07

AmericanGal, your other images are only uploaded to your user page.



If you reply to this thread, you should see your pictures in the "Attachments" down below \/



If you click on them one at a time, they will appear in the "Your Attachments" section below that.



Once you've added them all, click post reply, and everyone will be able to easily see them.

Edited by - A Drum On A Stick on 10/21/2025 17:23:34

pinenut - Posted - 10/21/2025:  18:12:52

pinenut - Posted - 10/21/2025:  18:14:05

Joel Hooks - Posted - 10/21/2025:  19:44:21

You have what looks to be a private label banjo either made by Gatcomb or from parts supplied by Gatcomb.

Some condition issues I see right away include (but not limited to) a poorly over sprayed or refinished neck, thick shim in attempt to lower action, and some replaced parts.

You might be able to get $500 on a good day. These tend not to be highly valued classic era banjos.

That is not to say they are not good banjos (when in good condition), just not highly valued monetary.

AmericanGal - Posted - 10/22/2025:  08:02:55

Thank you all so much for your help! Ken and Ian, I much appreciate your guidance as I struggled to post the pictures correctly, and Kam, looks like you came to the rescue and there they are, so grateful! Joel, thank you so very much for sharing your expertise, your valuable information answers our questions. What a great group and fine Forum! This American Gal thanks you all again, how wonderful this place is as a resource for researching these interesting old instruments.

kyleb - Posted - 10/23/2025:  08:31:02

from what i have been able to find w.p. hovey had banjos made for him, the ones i have seen were made by bay state , John C. Haynes. This one is very similar to other Bay state banjos and has the same headstock shape.

dbrooks - Posted - 10/23/2025:  08:49:48

I agree with Kyleb that your banjo very likely came from the John C. Haynes shop.  The headstock shape, dowel stick and number of brackets match my Bay State 318 model very closely.

David