Appearance of new instruments may vary slightly unless Serial Number is listed

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Gibson Banjos - 1930 TB3 Mastertone 5-String Conversion

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This 1930 Gibson TB3 Mastertone Banjo was expertly converted to a 5-string. The inside of the resonator clearly reads, in chalk and in paint, "9549-30", which according to Joe Spann's book, places it as a 1930 TB3. All parts of this 40-hole archtop pot are clean, nice and original, other than a drilled hole in the Presto tailpiece to facilitate the five string conversion. The finish has a nice, original luster with a small area of buckle wear in the center area of the back of the resonator. The binding and purfling are exceptionally clean. The one piece flange is reasonably straight with a slight cupping at the neck area and a minor, common blistery appearance. All other metal parts are in very good, straight condition.

This pot has not been messed with at all on this and the modern 5-string neck is of the highest quality, with a bow tie pattern. The patina and coloring of the neck match flawlessly with the original pot finish. There are only a few neck makers who can do this level of work, but Jim was not certain of the neck maker. This 1930 Gibson TB3 Mastertone 5-String Conversion Banjo banjo plays and sounds as good as it looks and comes with a non-original hard case. Serial #9549-30.

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