Pickup Only. Probably will not ship this, by request only, and unlikely unless your close to Idaho.
You found it – the banjo that looks like it’s straight from a front porch pickin’ session or a barnyard showdown. This Epiphone banjo comes with a case sturdy enough to withstand your wildest bluegrass adventures and is obviously ready to help you shine at that next hoedown… just don’t blame it if your fingers don’t move as fast as Earl Scruggs’.
Up for sale is a fantastic piece of vintage bluegrass history: a 1970s Epiphone 5-String Banjo, precision-crafted in Japan during the celebrated "Lawsuit Era."
This instrument is a premier example of a vintage "Masterclone", combining the reliable engineering of the famed Iida factory with iconic Gibson-inspired styling.
🔍 Key Specifications & Features:
The Neck & Headstock: Features the highly desirable "Fiddle-Cut" peghead shape and striking Pearloid block/rectangle inlays on a rosewood fretboard, giving it the upscale look of a classic American Mastertone.
The Rim Assembly: Built with the famous "Iida 7607 Pat." molded one-piece aluminum rim and flange. This integrated metal pot design provides outstanding structural stability and ensures the banjo will never warp.
The Resonator: Equipped with a beautiful, rich wood resonator back that projects a bright, loud, and crisp tone.
Playability: Because it utilizes an aluminum rim framework rather than a heavy 12-pound brass tone ring, this instrument is incredibly comfortable and lightweight—perfect for long jam sessions without straining your shoulder.
Original vintage chipboard hard case (in functional condition)
Whether you are an intermediate player looking for a bulletproof vintage upgrade or a collector of quality 1970s Made-in-Japan (MIJ) instruments, this Epiphone Masterclone is a stellar performer.
The inside rim is stamped IIDA 7607 PATS, confirming it was built at the famous Japanese (Made in Japan Iida Factory - Model 227 Setup) in July of 1976. Research shows that this Inner rim "IIDA 7607 PAT P" mark has also been seen also on a few Hohner branded Banjo's.
Well-loved by bluegrass players because of an incredibly bright, snappy, and clear punch with an immediate note attack, loud "Mastertone-style" tone but uses lightweight aluminum structural components, making this much lighter and more comfortable to hold than traditional 11-pound banjos. Low weight, no brass, no inner wood.
• Theme: Music/Bluegrass
• Item Type: Banjo & Case
• Brand: Epiphone
• Material: Wood, Metal
• Geared 5th string drone peg
• "Fiddle-Cut" and "Pearloid Block Inlay" (EB-98 has normal dot)
Mother of Pearl Script Logo, Cast-aluminum rim model.
• Weight: Case and Banjo 10 lbs. 3 oz. , Banjo by itself 6.9 lbs.
• Features: 5-string setup, includes original case.
• Country of Manufacture: Japan
• Markings: No sticker. Inside rim is marked "IIDA 7607 PAT P"
Right Handed. Based on bass side fretboard tuner. Strap attachment peg with loop ring is on underside tenor side bottom near the neck.
🎸 Condition & Performance:
This banjo is in Very Good condition, showing only light, normal signs of age appropriate for a well-loved 50-year-old vintage instrument. It appears to be 100% all-original, down to the hardware and tuners. The neck is straight, the geared tuners hold pitch reliably, and it delivers a bright, snappy note attack that cuts cleanly through any acoustic mix.
Good plus or very good condition, case has visible exterior wear, minor marks from previous use.
Have a Question? Chat Button on Lower Right.
Will ship same or next business day once payment is received.
All non media items: please see photos (as that is part of the condition).
MEASUREMENTS, unless critical clothing measurements; all our measurements outside of clothing category are visual guesses. We normally do not measure Hard Goods accurately unless asked to do so.
IF YOU NEED EXACT MEASUREMENTS, contact me BEFORE you try to purchase.
Please ask questions before you place an order.
Pocatello Idaho Pickup, next day by Appointment!
Some items need a request for shipping to be enabled, especially larger items or items that are specifically priced for pickup.
International shipping is through eBay global shipping only. (by Request)
We reserve the right to ship with any carrier/method of our choice. Most media items will be shipped media mail / 8oz is usually shipped ground advantage, regardless of the method/carrier you pick.