Gibson Mastertone Model RB-4 Banjo for Sale by Online Auction

Gibson Mastertone Model RB-4 Five-String Banjo
One of 10 made, 1930

Figured walnut body with bone edge binding, 13 3/4 in. Diam.; fretboard inlaid with mother of pearl hearts and flowers; 38 in. L. overall; the original ZAMAK flange cracked, but retained with the instrument. Together with the original Geib & Schaefer keratol case, and a newer Gibson hard shell case.

Provenance:

From the estate of John Wesley Smith (1936-2020) of West Virginia, a self-taught bluegrass and gospel musician, who performed widely with his wife as "John and Sue" and also played in other bands. He reportedly purchased this instrument from the original owner about 1950.

Undernumber: 10979.1