1926 Gibson TB-3 Tenor Banjo – Used

Yes, this Gibson tenor is coming up on its 100th birthday, but considering the originality and lack of wear, it’s pretty safe to assume most of those years were spent in its nice plush-lined hardshell case. These early Mastertone models were incredibly well-made, and hold up well even when not favored with the kind of careful handling and storage this example has enjoyed. in this case, the neck is straight (it has an adjustable truss rod), and the twin coordinating rods make adjusting string action quite easy (once you’ve learned how they work). The thick 3-ply maple shell is very solid and the other metal parts haven’t been molested by over-tensioning the head. In short, despite its age, this TB-3 is every bit as functional as a barely-used banjo just a few years old.

Gryphon didn’t acquire this from the original owner, obviously, so we can’t swear that no parts have been changed, but here’s our best guess:

Neck, resonator, shell and “ball-bearing” mounted tone ring are original, shell and resonator have matching numbers, finish is original, neck has original tuners, nut, and frets. Since Gibson used steel nickel-plated hooks, and those almost always show rust, we’re guessing these hooks are replacements. Resonator flange, tension hoop, Grover tailpiece, and armrest, appear original. The four resonator mounting bolts are obviously not original, and neither is the head. Nice period bridge.