I’m hoping that other members might have some knowledge of what the 1927 Gibson no-hole archtop TBs are currently selling for, both the 4-strings and their conversions. I know that it will depend on factors such as condition, authenticity, presence or absence of original parts, maker of conversion neck, etc., but a ballpark range would be helpful. Thanks for any thoughts on the subject.
They're starting at $4000+ for a Style 3, from my observation (asking price). Not a huge premium for the no hole tone ring.
I've seen them offered in Style 3, 4, 5 and Granada. Obviously Style 3 is the most common.
When I visited Gruhn's in Nashville this past October, they had several converted archtops in the $5000 - $6000 range. All with Frank Neat necks. These were mostly Style 3, I think. Nothing fancy. I can't say for a fact the tone rings were no-hole.
Paid 4250usd in 2018 for my 1928 no hole style 3 with Richie Dotson 5 string neck.
I sold a ‘27 no-hole conversion style 3 that also had a recent TT-style resonator, 3+ years ago. Brought $4400 at Gryphon. I forget the luthier’s name who did the conversion, but he was. The Davis, CA area and pretty well-known in the area when he did the work i the mid-1970s.
here was a TB-3 no hole in texas not converted 2 years ago for 3450.00
reverb.com/item/68800418-pre-w...tone-ring
here is one for sale now in arizona for 5000.00
Edited by - 1935tb-11 on 05/23/2025 07:10:59
Thank you to all who offered advice and experience. Much appreciated.
what am i looking at here... looks like a flat head... but the price is not right and there is no mention of the head being changed out.
https://reverb.com/item/78249747-vintage-gibson-tb-3-mastertone-4-string-tenor-banjo-with-original-case-1928
Magnifying the head makes it look like a raised head, and the interior view shows no holes, so presumably a no-hole archtop?
