1954 RB-100 with 5-ply full thickness "brown" rim and brass hoop "tone ring".
Serial number 4-884-27
All original except for arm rest, 5th string geared tuner and a few hooks and nuts. Currently has a tailpiece installed from early 60's Bowtie (better tone) but the original '54 tailpiece is included in case (original Lifton-type pink-lined case).
The resonator is as pretty as they come with a deep rich dark-framed sunburst complete with some "bird's eye" figure.
In terms of the banjo as a whole, it's hard to believe there are a lot of '54 RB-100's out there in better shape.
As for tone and with only a 1/4" bass hoop, this banjo gives credence to the opinion of many, that it's the old Gibson wood rims that account for much of tone in these old Gibbies. Hard to feel otherwise after hearing how powerful and rich this little RB-100's tone is.
Great Gibson.
For some reason unknown to me,,,, my uploaded photos to the Hangout become fuzzy. Frustrating because it doesn't happen anywhere else. Anyway,,, feel free to email for the same photos,,, in focus!!!