These Nashville Resonator banjos are relatively rare. From what we can determine, they were made in Japan for a short period of time during the 1970s, probably to compete with the American bluegrass banjo's of the time. And they did a good job. This banjo has a full flange (with no shoes), a nice mahogany resonator, decorative fingerboard inlay, and a Mastertone style tone ring that gives the banjo nice weight and clear bluegrass tone. It is in very good condition showing just a few small arks from age and use, but the shine remains on the finish and on the metal parts. The frets are also in good condition and it is set up nicely with low comfortable stage-ready action. It comes with a brown hard case that is in good condition except for the handle which needs to be repaired or replaced, but if offers good protection for shipping.