BoneDigger - Posted - 01/20/2026:  19:29:44

I am no longer playing three finger style banjo and am concentrating on clawhammer and two finger style now. I currently own a parts banjo in great shape with a Huber tone ring, I think a Sullivan rim, and the neck has "Gibson" on the headstock but is a copy and not a real Gibson. I'm just wondering what such a banjo would be worth on the used market or as trade bait for a clawhammer or tenor banjo? This banjo was professionally set up by Huber.

tdennis - Posted - 01/20/2026:  20:04:36

How much $$ do you have in it, & where are the detailed pics ??

BoneDigger - Posted - 01/20/2026:  20:20:51

I paid $1,000 for it a few years ago. I'll get some pics.

KCJones - Posted - 01/21/2026:  06:51:57

Well now that everyone knows what you paid for it, I'd say you've basically set the price.

I've seen parts banjos built like yours go for much higher, when sold by certain dealers and presented as "Gibson/Huber" banjos.

lightgauge - Posted - 01/21/2026:  09:00:57

If nice, it should bring more. Probably closer to 1500. You could consider parting it out and compare value either way.

BoneDigger - Posted - 01/21/2026:  09:09:40

To be honest, I bought the banjo probably 8 or 9 years ago and then had Huber put the tone ring in for me and set it up. So, I'm not sure that what I paid overall is a good indicator. And, I may just end up keeping it for those odd times that I may want to play three finger style. I'm just wanting to get an idea of what it's worth if I do list it.

Edited by - BoneDigger on 01/21/2026 09:10:25

Brian Murphy - Posted - 01/21/2026:  10:06:34

Around 1500 for all good components, but folks will try to get you down to 1200 + shipping (nobody likes paying for shipping). That Huber set it up is another good selling point. Nothing wrong with "parts" banjos. They're all parts banjos. The issue is sound, construction quality, and what shape it is in. A good case can add some value (although not new retail value). Shipping can be expensive.

If you don't really need the money, stick it under the bed. This is a tough market, and you might want to pick it up again some day.

banjered - Posted - 01/21/2026:  13:14:19

Maybe a video/sound demo would inspire a buyer. banjered