1927 Gibson TB4 Tenor Banjo

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1927 Gibson Mastertone archtop tenor banjo. It’s always interesting if there is a history or a story attached to a musical instrument, this particular banjo came from the late estate of Sandy Riner based in Florida who was a well known jazz player of his time. The pot assembly and resonator are original dating to 1927 with a 1927 Gibson Mastertone TB4 neck fitted, only difference from an original construction is the serial numbers are different. There is information on the database Gibson banjo from this site  I have highlighted the line below.

Year of manufacture: 1927

Serial Number: 8836-26

Auction Sale: Sandy Riner’s banjo; I/N Auction 1/2007: $3,990

About the banjo

This model is the non hole archtop tone ring compared to the earlier 1926 ball bearing tonering. Maple rim with arch top tonering fitted with white frosted Remo head. 24 hooks and huts with tube and flange pot assembly. The mahogany resonator has white side binding and the 2 concentric rings on the back. The condition of the resonator is excellent and shows the beautiful mahogany grain. The overall plating throughout is in excellent condition, replacement clamshell tail piece and newer armrest fitted. This TB4 model features the hearts and flowers headstock MOP and H&F MOP position markers on the ebony fretboard.  White binding to side of neck and white heel cap, pancake geared tuners all working well and holding tune. The action is low and plays perfectly up the neck with no fret buzzes. The sound this banjo produces is really sweet, sustaining but great cut and attack. Comes with an original Gibson hardshell case.

For Sale: offers around £2950  Reduced to £2795