Up for sale is an exceptional 1976 Stelling Golden Cross walnut 5-string resonator banjo. Built during the golden era of Geoff Stelling’s early California workshop, this instrument delivers the unmistakable, crisp, punchy Stelling projection and clarity that cuts through any jam or stage mix.
Overall Condition: Excellent vintage condition for a 50-year-old instrument. Clean finish with minimal signs of handling, no structural cracks. Minimal patina.
Neck & Fretboard: Straight neck with comfortable action and plenty of life left on the frets. Ebony fretboard features the iconic Golden Cross pearl inlays.
Hardware & Plating: nickel hardware in great shape with light patina consistent with its age. Original Stelling wedge-fit tone ring and rim assembly.
D-Tuners: Equipped with two recently installed Keith/Scruggs D-tuners on the 2nd and 3rd strings, operating smoothly and holding pitch accurately. I purchased and installed these recently at a cost of $240.
A new head was purchased from Stelling and installed within the last year.
Capo Spikes: Installed at the 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th frets.
Snuffy Smith bridge
Ships in a hardshell case in good condition with working latches. The case is older but completely serviceable.
Serial Number: #144. This is a wonderful banjo with killer tone and volume, but I have several banjos and this one is just not being played. It needs to be in the hands of someone who will play it regularly and receive much joy from it.
Price: $4,495
Shipping: Will be professionally packed in a dedicated heavy-duty instrument box with proper head/neck support, fully insured, and also available for local pickup in the Sacramento area.
Here it at youtube.com/shorts/mnfnSwJGfQ0...Z4QQ8YZ_9
