I really don't have a ton of information here, if someone could help me! I've struggled to identify this 5-string Gibson that belonged to my late grandfather. I know it’s pre-1990s because of when I received it, and based on family history, it’s likely from the pre-1960s era. Unsure, honestly.
The fretboard is completely blank (no inlays).
The banjo head is heavy
It has a resonator - I took it off and there’s no visible serial number or label inside the rim.
The tailpiece is marked Gibson- nothing on the freeboard
I inspected inside the rim but couldn’t find a label, stamp, or serial number. I’m not sure if it was removed, worn away, or if the rim or other parts were replaced.
I haven’t yet removed the head to inspect the rim or tone ring more closely (I’m new to this and a bit nervous about taking it apart!).
The banjo may have been custom-built, modified, or repaired at some point.
Based on the heavy weight, I suspect it might be a Mastertone model, but I’m not certain.
Any ideas based on photos?
Here are the pictures:
Edited by - Emiel on 01/20/2025 09:19:05
Based on the flange holes, resonator finish, and peghead shape it doesn't appear to be Gibson, except for the tailpiece. It could be a kit banjo, imported banjo, or maybe custom made. Those round flange holes are somewhat unique so others may know more.
Stewart-McDonald kit or Stewart-McDonald parts banjo, except for the tailpiece
Edited by - RioStat on 01/20/2025 10:07:57
I don't remember seeing a Gibson banjo with no dots or inlays on the fingerboard. Even the most rudimentary models that I have seen have something on them, unless I am mistaken.
Bobby
Thanks everyone! so just the gibson tailpiece and not actually a gibson?
Also any way to date it?
Tailpiece is the only Gibson part, from what can be seen.
I would guess that this is from the 1970-80's from what I remember about Stew-Mac.
Here's one that is basically same as yours, though whoever built this kit, inlaid some basic dots into the fretboard.
Edited by - RioStat on 01/20/2025 12:27:55
Thank you!!
quote:
Originally posted by gauldinamAlso any way to date it?
A kittle wine, a little food...
As Scott mentioned, it reminds me of a Stew-Mac.
Everything about it is Stewart MacDonald except the tailpiece and the tuners.
That is a good banjo. Good banjos don't always have a brand and branded banjos aren't always good.
It's likely your Grandfather put it together. Nice quality tuners and materials. It should sound and play great (or will with minor setup adjustments).
Grandpa wants you to play banjo.
Toss a coin, to determine if Grandpa wants you to play the banjo.
But, before you toss it, say, out loud
GRANPA!! Do you want me to play this banjo??"
And, write YES on both sides of the coin.
A friend of mine had one of those Stew-Mac kit banjos, it played and sounded great, I wanted to buy it but they wouldn't let it go...
