Description
A friend gave me this banjo for my son to play. The only markings on it is 408 on the back and an eagle holding three arrows and a branch with three stars over its head. It came in a hard case. This is the only information I have.
Re: Old 5 String Banjo with Eagle on the Resonator
If I am not mistaken, the banjo is probably about 15 years "old" or probably less and most likely from China (comparable Japanese knock-offs are were well crafted and are still much desired.) Yours has a cheap laminate resonator, square fret markers commonly used in Asia, the tailpiece is inexpensive, the hardware and flanges looks like tin. The fretboard could be a soft ebony. IF you'd like more opinions, go to the Banjo Hangout web site (one word). I can't see the heel or back of neck, The bird is a stencil.but I'm pretty sure you can find one of these on ebay for $100 or less. Sorry.
However, if the neck is straight and has been set up properly for playing, and the frets are in good shape, this is an okay student-grade intro banjo. If your son sticks with it, then you can get him a better one.