Prewar Gibson Banjos
Prewar Gibson Banjos stand as iconic treasures, representing a pinnacle of craftsmanship and historical significance in the world of stringed instruments. Crafted during a distinct era, these banjos are revered for their exceptional quality and hold a special place in the hearts of musicians and collectors alike.
Hailing from the golden age of instrument-making, prewar Gibson Banjos are sought after for their unparalleled tonal richness and meticulous construction. Played by legendary artists such as Earl Scruggs, J D Crowe, and Ralph Stanley, among others, these instruments have shaped the sound of bluegrass and folk music.
Our collection of prewar Gibson Banjos spans various models, including revered vintage and relatively recent styles, each a testament to Gibson’s commitment to excellence. As the quality standard in banjo craftsmanship, these instruments are a piece of musical history that continues to resonate with musicians seeking the authentic, warm tones that define the prewar Gibson legacy.
Keep in mind that we nearly always have various banjos in stock that haven’t yet made it to our website listings. Give us a call at 404-218-8580.
1926 Gibson TB-3 ball-bearing conversion with original tone ring, pot, resonator, and hardware. Frank Neat 5-string maple neck with diamonds and squares inlay. Three-ply hard rock maple rim, two-piece flange, grooved tension hoop, Presto tailpiece. Serial 8168-12. Excellent condition from Colombia. Professionally set up before shipping.
1932 Gibson TB-3 Mastertone (#115-8) with original one-piece flange and raised-head tone ring. Converted to 5-string by Frank Neat with mahogany neck featuring flying eagle inlays. Spikes at 7, 8, 9, 10. All original hardware and resonator—93 years of character.
1936 Gibson TB-1 conversion with 20-hole flathead professional tone ring, Flying Eagle inlays, original pot, flange, and maple resonator. Serial 781-2. Sounds extraordinary. Free shipping and 7-day approval.
1940 Gibson TB-11 tenor banjo converted to 5-string flathead by Frank Neat. Features Tennessee 20 tone ring, original green pearloid resonator, and documented shipping ledger provenance—shipped December 10, 1940 and in one family for 73 years.
1930 Gibson TB-4 Mastertone archtop conversion with all original hardware. Serial #9554-45 places this squarely in Gibson's golden era of Mastertone production. Original rim, one-piece flange, original archtop tone ring, flying eagle inlays. Professional 5-string neck. Includes hardshell case.
Late 1930s Recording King Model #731 — made by Gibson at Kalamazoo for Montgomery Ward. This tenor conversion features a Huber HR-30 tone ring, original sunburst maple resonator, one-piece flange, and prewar Presto tailpiece. The replacement 5-string neck includes an adjustable truss rod and modern tuners. Prewar craftsmanship meets modern playability.