[SN 301127] USED GIBSON USA / RB250 [03]

Ishibashi Music Corporation. Verified independent store

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A 1970s Gibson 5-string resonator banjo—the RB-250—has arrived. Based on its serial number and specifications, it appears to have been manufactured at the Kalamazoo factory between 1974 and 1975. The mahogany resonator and ebony fingerboard feature mother-of-pearl inlays that sparkle beautifully. The ebony fingerboard has been lightly sanded, and there are partial chips in the position mark inlays. Additionally, the “MASTERTONE” lettering on the 21st fret has been erased due to the sanding. The position marks on the sides of the fingerboard have been re-inlaid. A significant portion of the celluloid binding on the resonator has peeled off, and the remaining sections are starting to come loose. The tuning pegs for the 2nd and 3rd strings have been replaced with key tuners. The plating on all metal parts has dulled. Nails have been driven into the 7th, 9th, and 10th frets. There are multiple cracks along the rim’s edge, which have been roughly repaired with adhesive. On the inside, there is a MASTERTONE sticker from the Kalamazoo factory, and there are separate traces where other stickers have been removed.A wooden shim has been inserted at the neck joint, and a piece of cloth—presumably to adjust the fit—is wedged between the flange and the rim. The lengths of the hooks and the types of nuts vary, suggesting that some parts have been replaced. The tailpiece is stamped “GIBSON,” and the screws are warped. The armrest is stamped “GIBSON.” A sticker, presumably for a music store’s inventory management, is affixed to the back of the headstock. The string action measures approximately 2.1 mm at the 12th fret on the 4th string and approximately 1.9 mm at the 12th fret on the 1st string. This instrument is being sold “as is.” It shows significant signs of wear, including peeling and chipped binding and a modified fingerboard; however, it produces a rich, mellow sound that clearly reflects the characteristics of Gibson banjos from that era, and both its tone and playability are excellent. Condition Grade B Truss Rod: Tested to move 60 degrees in both directions Neck Condition: No issues Frets: No issues; approximately 80% intact Accessories: Non-original hard case Images pending Condition Grade: B+: Some minor scratches, but no issues for normal use * As this is a used item, there may be scratches, dents, or other imperfections that are not visible in the photos or not listed here. Please be aware of this in advance. * Where specifications such as truss rod adjustment, remaining fret life, or string action are listed, these measurements were taken by our staff during setup and are subject to change due to environmental factors such as climate and humidity. These measurements are intended as a reference at the time of purchase; we do not guarantee that the measurements will be identical when the item arrives at your location. * This is a one-of-a-kind item that is listed simultaneously on multiple marketplaces, including our in-store display. We strive to promptly remove product listings once an item is sold, but updates may not always be in real time. We sincerely apologize if the item happens to be sold out after you place your order, and we ask for your understanding. Show more