2005 Gibson RB-18 Top Tension 5-String Banjo

One of the most rare Gibson 5-string banjos of them all, the RB-18 was the highest top-tension model and was only sold for three years (1938-1940). With their from-the-front head adjustment, radiused fingerboard, Art Deco inlays, and carved-back resonator, the original top-tension models were designed to make earlier Mastertones obsolete both visually and structurally. The banjo department at Gibson did their homework when they decided to reissue the RB-18, right down to the odd pearl script “Gibson” on the headstock and geometric Art Deco engraving on the armrest, tailpiece, tension hoop, and resonator flange. And yes, as with the originals, you can tighten or loosen the head without removing the resonator.

This example was sold in Berkeley Calif. when new and apparently never strayed far from the SF Bay Area. Although it’s in excellent+ condition, it did get played and has very minor fret wear and “railroad spikes” under the 5th string at the 7th and 9th frets. There is almost no finish wear to be found and the gold plating shows little sign of tarnish. The dark spot on the back of the resonator is in the finish, we don’t know its source and haven’t tried to remove it. Comes with the original hardshell case with The Gibson logo, head-tightening key, and warranty paper.