There is a banjo listed for potential trade at UMGF. I am a little intrigued. It is a 1929 Gibson TB-3. Link below to listing. He is looking for a trade value of $4500. I don’t know anything about vintage Gibson valuations. My question: Is that valuation in the right ballpark?
Thanks in advance!
https://umgf.com/fs-ft-1929-gibson-style-3-mastertone-banjo-for-mar-t223160.html?view=unread#unread
That’s in the ballpark if description is verified. Frank Neat necks bring a little more. Resonator should be chalked with matching number on the rim. Would want to verify that if you trade. If the chalk has been rubbed out it affects the value. It knocks the value down. 40 hole arch top tone ring is typical for that year. Also would want to know if he still has the original tenor tailpiece and neck as that also helps with value if it stays with the pot. If it is a five string prewar tailpiece that also solidifies some value. They are getting expensive (tailpiece).
Thanks @Ol_Papa! That’s exactly the type of info I needed.
It says it has the original 40 hole tone ring and a pre war presto tailpiece. There is a picture of the chalked resonator. Looks like the original neck is with it as well.
There ya go. Sounding better… One thing, there are alot of neck makers out there. Some better known than others. If you are in the market for a conversion banjo make sure the neck fits YOU. No matter who makes it. A neck will run you in the neighborhood of 1-2.5k depending on the maker. So that has to be taken into account (initial cost) if you like the pot sound but not too happy with the neck. If you’re buying a conversion with a “custom” neck it should at least feel right to your hand.