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 ARCHIVED TOPIC: Gibson Earl Scruggs Banjo -- at least 30 years old!


Please note this is an archived topic, so it is locked and unable to be replied to. You may, however, start a new topic and refer to this topic with a link: http://www.banjohangout.org/archive/406603

fish1963 - Posted - 12/27/2025:  07:01:35

I am considering selling my Earl Scruggs Special Gibson Banjo. This was the first serious banjo I purchased out of St Louis about 30 years ago. I just don't play it as often as I should as I have become used to a radius fret board. I am looking at replacing it with a different banjo -- i'm sure I'll miss it.

It's in great shape. There are a few minor scratches on the pot and there is "broken nail hole" where the sliding 5th string capo used to be. I never bothered with that bit of cosmetic repair. Frets 1 thru 5 have been replaced with Stainless. Keith D tuners were refurbished about 4 years ago. They work great.

The case is not original. Snuffy Bridge

questions.

1. The number on the rim is 1569. So, from this post it looks like it's a 1989?? banjohangout.org/archive/380509
2. What's it worth?

Thanks!







 

The Old Timer - Posted - 12/27/2025:  10:06:40

Just check the Classifieds here and you'll see what folks are asking for their similar Scruggs models. If your's is really 1989 that makes it a Greg Rich Era build (1987-1993) and seem to earn a little bit extra value in the used market. Condition and originality of course are most important.

banjoez - Posted - 01/02/2026:  10:29:03

It depends on condition. The pics look like it's not exactly pristine but right now there seems to be a bit of hype surrounding these "Rich Era" Gibson's. I'd estimate the value around $3500 + or - $500 if it's all original. Polishing it up a little and putting on a clean head may help also. Take some clear, clean pics of both the inside and outside with some closeups.

Edited by - banjoez on 01/02/2026 10:33:54

J.Albert - Posted - 01/03/2026:  15:14:26

OP, be aware:



That's not an "Earl Scruggs Special" (emphasis on "special").

Rather, it's known as the "Scruggs Standard" (also known as the "ESS").



If I'm not mistaken there was also a "Scruggs Special" that was gold plated and engraved.

I could be wrong, others please correct me.



Going price on these in good/excellent condition seems to be 3,400-4,000.

The "Rich Era" aura and Earl's handwritten signature help, too.

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