1962 Gibson RB-250 5-String Banjo- Used

Most banjos purchased over 60 years ago have probably suffered at least a few rough years, but this Gibson RB-250 from 1962 has led a charmed life. Along with taking excellent care of it, and its Lifton case, the original owner also saved the original Kluson tuners and Presto tailpiece when he upgraded those parts to make tuning easier. And rather than just add the usual Keith pegs for the 2nd and 3rd strings, he also purchased matching Keith planet pegs for the 1st and 4th strings.

Both the nut and the frets appear to be original, and frets show very little wear. We’re guessing the Remo head may also be original but of course we can’t be sure. All metal parts except the tailpiece (the one on it now) appear to be original, including the Cooper Brass Works “4 drain holes” arch-top tone ring. The tailpiece in the case appears too clean to be original but it’s obvious that this Mastertone may have been more loved than played. There is some lacquer checking on the back of the resonator, but less than you usually see on ’60s Gibsons. While it’s highly unusual to see metal parts on a banjo this old still so shiny, this RB-250 did come to us from California Gold Rush country, an exceptionally dry climate.