The Gibson Florentine model was first built in 1927, advertised as the “patrician leader among fine banjos”, and soon after retired. This rare, "limited edition" re-issue from 1994 is from the modern Gibson "Greg Rich" era, known for high-quality materials and craft - Rich has signed it inside. The superb workmanship supports a magnificent banjo sound - crisp, clean notes with exceptional carrying power.
The instrument is flawless, as it was part of a collection, kept in a humidity-controlled room, and very rarely played. All metal parts are heavily gold-plated and ornately engraved. The resonator features a hand-carved-and-painted reproduction of the coat-of-arms of Florence.
This sale includes a luxurious Hoffee carbon-fiber travel case, also flawless (and worth $1000 in itself), which this instrument well-deserves.
