Master luthier John Greven created this tour de force custom banjo in 1974 while working at GTR.
Overall design is the Mastertone style with a fat rim, two piece flange, two coordinator rods, brass "no hole" flathead tone ring, and Kershner tailpiece. Metal is gold-plated and hand-engraved extensively. The highly figured curly maple neck has elaborate pearl and abalone engraved inlay work. A unique Dragon inlay covers the entire peghead. The fingerboard inlays feature a beautiful design from a 1900's Bay State Banjo. There is detailed woodcarving on the back of peghead and neck heel. The back of the walnut resonator has a fierce looking Dragon inlay. Abalone purfling was used on the sides of the neck and sides/back of the resonator.
Featured in several magazines when released, this unique banjo demonstrated the creative talent, unique approach to inlay work, and luthier skills of John Greven. While highly collectible as art, a vintage instrument, or an investment, this banjo sounds great and is very playable.
Includes OHSC.
Links
Sound sample - youtube.com/watch?v=Z5_gRoXiJ2U
More photos and videos - photos.app.goo.gl/N3yBr4J8q5PHGB3E8
John Greven bio - search.luth.org/john-greven/
John Greven interview - fretboardjournal.libsyn.com/po...hn-greven
