Vintage 1980s Fender Leo Banjo – Made in Japan, Gibson Specs, Tone Ring, Pro Setup

Vintage Fender Leo Banjo – Made in Japan, Gibson Specs, Pro Setup

Discover one of the best values in vintage bluegrass instruments with this Fender Leo banjo. Built in Japan during the 1980s—when Japanese craftsmanship rivaled and often surpassed U.S. production—this banjo is modeled closely after Gibson designs and offers impressive tone and reliability at an affordable price.

This Fender Leo features a full-size tone ring, a 10-ply maple shell, and quality pot metal hardware. The tuners are smooth and stable, and the build quality is solid throughout. Designed for serious tone on a budget, it’s a semi-professional banjo available at a beginner-friendly price.

This particular instrument came from the collection of a longtime banjo enthusiast and has seen very little play. The frets show minimal wear and the banjo is in excellent vintage condition. A durable hardshell case is included with purchase.

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Key Features:

• Made in Japan to Gibson banjo specifications

• Full-size bell bronze tone ring

• 10-ply maple shell for strong projection

• Smooth pot metal components and high-quality tuners

• Includes hardshell case

• Professionally set up at The Banjo Warehouse in Ohio

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Inventory Note:

We currently have nearly 20 vintage Fender Leo banjos from the 1980s in stock. You may not receive the exact banjo pictured. After purchase, you’re welcome to contact us to request specific features such as:

• Clear or frosted banjo head

• Railroad spikes or fifth-string capo

• Dot or artistic inlays

• Original or upgraded case

We’ll hand-pick the best match for you.

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Why Buy from The Banjo Warehouse?

Every banjo we sell is professionally inspected, cleaned, and set up to ensure maximum playability. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a reliable first instrument or a collector seeking a unique piece of banjo history, the Fender Leo is a standout choice.

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Need Help Deciding?

Call Geoff Hohwald at 404-218-8580 for an in-hand description or just to talk shop—Geoff loves talking bluegrass.

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In-Person & Virtual Banjo Lessons with Geoff Hohwald

Geoff Hohwald has taught thousands of banjo players across five decades—from first-timers to seasoned pickers. He’s played with bluegrass legends like John Hickman, Frank Wakefield, and Sid Campbell and offers both in-person and virtual lessons, priced on a sliding scale.

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🎵 Grab a copy of Geoff’s best-selling beginner banjo book, The Banjo Primer (over 200,000 sold), available now on Amazon.