Geoff Stelling was considered one of the world’s premier banjo makers. He made banjos from 1974 to 2022, first in California, and later in Virginia, and his shops were responsible for making about 7000 instruments during that time. Stelling banjos are known for a certain type of punchiness that many bluegrass players covet highly. The Red Fox model was inspired by the late banjo player Bill Emerson and was made starting around 1989 and remained a popular Stelling model. Features include solid cast nickel plated hardware, Maple pot and flamed Maple neck, Ebony fingerboard with decorative “Maple Leaf” inlay, Red Fox headstock inlay, curly Maple resonator, a “no-hole” bell-bronze tone ring and “Tony Pass” Maple rim. Structurally, the banjo remains in very good playing condition with a straight neck and appropriate bluegrass action. There is some corrosion/tarnish on the metal parts, as might be expected of an older instrument but the wood parts shine and the flamed Resonator and flames Maple neck remain beautiful with only a very few light hard to see marks from use. The banjo comes with its original Stelling hard case which is also in very good condition with all latches working. Another significant added bonus: four "Keith" style tuners have been installed, making this banjo versatile for professional players of all stripes.