Posted By: Hunter Motts (+4) | Rate Member
$44,500 USD
Up for sale is a 1929 Gibson model TB – 3 assembled in 1929. The banjo originally shipped as a tenor with a 40 – hole archtop ring and has been converted into a 5 string with a Neat neck and an orphaned “dull face” Gibson flathead ring from the period. The 9488 batch of TB3 Mastertones has long been coveted for the “fat rim” construction and the difference in tone that these banjos produce as a result. This instrument is a powerhouse, and I can provide videos for anyone interested.
The ring was fitted by Don Bryant in 2024 and has been authenticated by Steve Huber. His signature is present on the inside of the ring, and the ring weighs 2 pounds, 15.5 ounces. The ring is typical for the late 20s/early 30s period having a “dull face” finish on the inside.
The banjo retains all its original hardware (with the exception of the archtop ring) in excellent shape. The stretcher band and one-piece flange are in excellent shape for their age and the era, and the flange exhibits minimal pull. The presto tailpiece is original and has been punched by Jerry Keys. As a precaution, I fitted a modern tailpiece bracket to the rim as the original had a small stress crack but was still usable. The original bracket will be with the banjo as well as the modern one.
The neck was built by Frank and Ricky Neat in 2024 out of figured Mahogany with Brazilian Rosewood. The mahogany was sourced from a lumber yard in Asheville (pre hurricane Helene) and the owner had harvested it in 1993 from a tree estimated to be 90 years old. The neck is inlaid with the “leaves and bows” pattern typical of Style 3’s and matches the tenor neck to the banjo. The tenor neck is included in the sale. The conversion neck will retain its original tuners (D Tuners not included), and they have been serviced by Dean Meece of Banjo Tuner Restoration and Service.
$44,500 takes the banjo in its current configuration. Hard case not included. Local pickup only or I can meet within a reasonable distance of Upstate South Carolina. Message me with any other questions you have and thanks for looking!
Video
youtu.be/IcDEFY99IjA?feature=shared
Location:
United States, Boiling Springs , SC, 29349
Shipping:
In person
Return Policy:
Returns not accepted.
Condition of Item(s):
Used - Very Good Condition
Category:
Make:
Gibson
Ad Status:
Active
Listing No:
108922
Page Views:
1200
This ad will automatically expire 5/17/2025 4:06:32 PM unless updated before that date. To keep the system current, ads expire if not updated for more than 60 days.
