Description

This 1929 Gibson RB-3 Flathead Conversion banjo is actually a “Double” conversion. We say Double Conversion because the Tenor neck was replaced with a newer 5-str neck AND the original Archtop Tone Rine was replaced with a pre-war style 20-hole Flathead tone ring. The FON is #9488-46. The Resonator is original but appears to have been over-sprayed professionally. All other parts appear to be original or at least bonefide from the period.

Mahogany neck with double-cut peghead with Gibson script pearl inlay at top and Wreath pattern inlays below. Truss-rod cover and access just above the bone nut. Flat Brazilian Rosewood fingerboard with Wreath inlay pattern. The Pearl “Mastertone” block is in the 15th fret space. Cream bindings along the fingerboard, with large red-brown position markers along the sides. The tuners are nickel Grover offset “Pancake” tuners with Schaller 5th.

The pot is original. 3-ply Maple rim has been professionally cut for Flathead tone ring. F.O.N. stamped into the inside of rim. Original 1-pc pot metal flange is only slightly bending upwards. Original (or period), armrest and 5-str Presto tailpiece. Original tension hoop, hooks & nuts, Co-rods and resonator hardware.
The Resonator is original but appears to have been over-sprayed professionally. It is not warped and has never been repaired or altered. Original gold leaf and original chalk F.O.N. in good shape in the resonator.

This is a very nice banjo in great shape and its parts are all in great shape, too.
Comes set-up to play. Includes good hard case.