Gibson PB-3 Conversion Prewar Resonator Banjo (1930)

A Holy Grail prewar Gibson banjo of the highest order, this instrument has the added pedigree of having been owned and played since the 1980s by the great second generation bluegrass banjoist, Tony Trischka.

It features a 1930 PB-3 pot with one-piece flange and original flathead tone ring. When purchased by Tony via Sonny Osborne, the instrument had a Frank Neat repro neck installed on it. The neck was later irreparably damaged and replaced with a Tokai neck which has been on the banjo and used by Tony for many years.

Tony Trischka has been rightly praised as “one of the most influential modern banjoists.” He is also well known for his teaching skills, and his students have included Bela Fleck among many others. As Tony’s favorite personal banjo, it has logged many miles and played many shows with him.

Banjos like this are rarely seen on the open market these days, and this is a rare opportunity to acquire one with incredible provenance as well as tone of the highest caliber. With newer hard case (blue lining).