1932 Gibson TB-3 Mastertone Conversion #115-8

This 1932 Gibson TB-3 Mastertone, serial number 115-8, represents the golden era of prewar Gibson banjo production. Built during Gibson’s peak craftsmanship period, this banjo features the desirable original one-piece flange and raised-head tone ring that collectors prize.

The TB-3 was Gibson’s mid-range Mastertone model, offering exceptional build quality with mahogany construction throughout. This example retains all original hardware, pot assembly, and resonator—93 years of honest wear and unmistakable character.

The Frank Neat Five-String Conversion

Master luthier Frank Neat converted this banjo to five-string configuration with a stunning mahogany neck featuring the classic flying eagle inlay pattern in mother-of-pearl. The neck includes spikes at frets 7, 8, 9, and 10 for capo versatility and modern upgraded tuners with pearloid buttons.

The original raised-head tone ring delivers the bright, punchy archtop sound with bell-like clarity that cuts through a band mix—the tone heard on classic recordings by Ralph Stanley, Don Stover, and Doug Dillard.

Original Prewar Gibson Features

• One-piece flange—the mark of early 1930s Mastertone construction
• Original raised-head tone ring (archtop configuration)
• Original mahogany resonator with binding
• Original hardware throughout
• Original armrest with playing wear patina
• Serial number 115-8 stamped inside resonator

Condition

The mahogany resonator shows honest wear consistent with 93 years of use—scratches, dings, and patina that tell this banjo’s story. The armrest shows characteristic wear from decades of playing. All original components remain structurally sound and fully functional.

What’s Included

• Gibson TB-3 Mastertone pot assembly with original one-piece flange
• Original raised-head tone ring
• Frank Neat mahogany neck with flying eagle inlays
• Original mahogany resonator with binding
• All original hardware and armrest
• Modern upgraded tuners with pearloid buttons
• Spikes at frets 7, 8, 9, 10

Note: Original tenor neck not included.

Specifications

Manufacturer	Gibson Inc., Kalamazoo, Michigan
Model	TB-3 Mastertone (converted to 5-string)
Year	1932
Serial Number	115-8
Tone Ring	Original raised-head (archtop)
Flange	Original one-piece
Neck	Frank Neat mahogany with flying eagle mother-of-pearl inlays
Resonator	Original mahogany with binding
Tuners	Modern upgraded with pearloid buttons
Spikes	Frets 7, 8, 9, 10
Armrest	Original Gibson
Hardware	All original

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Gibson TB-3 Mastertone?

The Gibson TB-3 was a mid-range Mastertone tenor banjo produced from the late 1920s through the 1930s. It featured mahogany construction throughout, including the neck and resonator, with the same quality pot assembly found on higher-end models. The TB-3 represents excellent value among prewar Gibson Mastertones.

What is a one-piece flange?

Gibson’s earlier Mastertone banjos used a two-piece tube-and-plate flange design. Around 1929-1930, Gibson introduced the die-cast one-piece flange as a cost-saving measure. This 1932 TB-3 features that one-piece construction. While the two-piece flange is actually sturdier, one-piece flange banjos became highly sought after because the great prewar flatheads played by Earl Scruggs, Don Reno, and Sonny Osborne all had one-piece flanges.

What is a raised-head tone ring?

The raised-head (or archtop) tone ring was Gibson’s original Mastertone design. Unlike flathead rings that sit flush with the rim, the raised-head ring creates an arch in the head, producing a bright, punchy tone with bell-like clarity and quick attack. This is the sound heard on classic recordings by Ralph Stanley, Don Stover, and Doug Dillard. While flatheads became more popular for their fuller, warmer sustain, many players prize the archtop’s ability to cut through a band mix.

What are flying eagle inlays?

The flying eagle pattern is a classic mother-of-pearl inlay design used on high-end banjo necks. Frank Neat’s interpretation of this pattern features ornate, detailed pearl work running the length of the fingerboard—a significant upgrade that adds both visual appeal and value.

Is this banjo suitable for bluegrass music?

Absolutely. The archtop tone ring produces the bright, cutting tone favored by Ralph Stanley and other traditional bluegrass players. While flatheads became more common for their warmer sustain, archtops punch through a band mix with bell-like clarity. The Frank Neat conversion makes this fully playable as a modern 5-string instrument with spikes for capo versatility.

More Prewar Gibson Conversions

Looking for other converted vintage banjos? Browse our selection:

• 1930 Gibson TB-4 Mastertone Archtop Conversion #9554-45
• 1926 Gibson TB-3 Ball Bearing Conversion with Frank Neat Neck