In case you hadn’t heard, Bluegrass Today announced that Geoff Stelling is shutting down operations at the end of 2022. The end of an era for sure.
Stelling Retirement
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At least that’s the end of those messed-up banjos 
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Whew, good catch. 
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Man, that’s sad. I’ve always wanted a Stelling. Maybe I could find a used one sometime.
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I hadn’t heard that, thanks. I’ve wanted a Stelling for a number of years. While shopping I was looking at an older model and emailed the company to ask a question. I was quite impressed that Geoff replied himself.
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End of an era for sure. High quality instrument, unique sound. They came around at a time when the quality of Gibsons banjo’s were down. Geoff’s craftsmanship is among the best out there. They should go up in value with time (as did Gibson after 2010).
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Does that mean my “Master Flower” just gained in value. Next to becoming a Life Gold Pick Member at banjobenclark.com my Stelling is the second best investment I’ve made.
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Yes indeed. They have definitely gone up from what I’ve seen on the banjohangout. I love the Masterflower. What type of wood is it?
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Hi Brent to be honest I can’t remember I think possibly walnut, I’ll check later and see if I can find a photo. Just out of bed not had my
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Hi Brent, My Stelling Master Flower has the Sunflower inlay pattern but is made from fancy walnut, and has a peghead binding, and purfling rings in the resonator which looks really impressive. The name inlay is located on the fifteenth fret and has a stylish script font with the words Master Flower on the 2013 model.
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That’s a beauty. Mr. Stelling said that he believed his own personal walnut Master Flower was the best sounding banjo in the world. So, if you agree with him, you’ve got the best. It’s subjective I know, and everyone’s ears and tastes are different, but I do love chasing it and talking about it.
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He made some beautiful banjo’s for sure.