Gibson one-of-a-kind Florentine, circa 1934. This is undoubtedly the rarest prewar Gibson archtop banjo in existence! From the front it looks like a regular Florentine, with the ice cream cone peghead and scenes of Italy on the fingerboard, but the resonator and neck carvings are completely different than on any other banjo. It also has one piece flange construction, which is found on only a few Florentines. The banjo was made for A. L. Caroselli, who was born in Italy and came to this country at the age of 14. He worked as a musician in Jean Goldkette's band, and later with Walter Domzalski in the Midwest Vaudeville Circuit. He also frequently performed as a magician. Caroselli died on 8 January 1950 in Detroit, while attending a party given for him and his wife to celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary. Click HERE to view a pic of the original owner.

Turtle Hill Banjo Company Phone 301-274-3441 or Send e-mail to THBC