Gibson Earl Scruggs Standard (1984)

Description

As a replica of the father of three-finger banjo's 1937 Granada, Gibson's Earl Scruggs Standard has become one of their best-known and most prized models from the modern, post-Norlin era - but what many don't realize is that since Earl's banjo was constantly in flux, the Scruggs Standard has gone through changes over the years as well. As a 1984 model year (the very first year of production), this banjo is a one-to-one copy of what Earl's Granada looked and felt like at the time, with a thinner neck, a different finish, and different hardware than later editions, which were modeled after further modified versions of his instrument. In 1984, Scruggs' banjo notably featured a non-original neck with a very narrow headstock, and the original burst finish was refinished to more of a brownish mahogany stain. Likewise, the iconic gold hardware had been briefly swapped out for nickel hardware instead, for an instrument that combined elements of the Granada with Gibson's RB models. All these modifications have been faithfully recreated on the 1984 Standard, giving it a look, sound, and feel quite unlike a late-period model year, but for a more exact replica of a fascinating period of 15 to 20 years where Scruggs' banjo was truly one-of-a-kind.

What's more, this banjo has arrived in our shop in very good condition, and was kept in its case and not played throughout its first few decades of ownership. For the most part, wear is highly uniform, with the most notable damage being a 1cm dent in the drone string side of the resonator, up near the neck joint. The original head has notably been replaced with an aftermarket mylar one more reminiscent of a Renaissance head, most likely within the last ten years. All the hardware is original, including the original tuning machines - Gibson did not begin shipping the Scruggs Standard with Keith tuners until the Greg Rich era, and originals like this one feature regular nickel-plated planetary machines. The set up is excellent, with very low action that will suit even the most demanding three-finger pickers, and the neck is straight and comfortable in all positions. Included in the price is the original hard-shell case.

*Please note, per our return policy, all sales on used and consignment instruments are final.*