[GEAR] I am hoping to pinpoint a year and model I.D. for an older Franciscan banjo

Hello everyone!

I have been lurking here for a while, but first post to the group.

My aunt’s(RIP) banjo ended up in my cousin’s hands and he already has a newer banjo for when he gets the urge to play. He “loaned” this banjo in perpetuity for me to learn how to clean it up and enjoy learning/playing it.

History of this banjo: There was a banjo passed around with my mother’s sisters during the 70’s that she (my Aunt J) owned and I wanted to see if this is definitely that one or if she bought a newer one later on. ♥

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My question: Can anyone help me identify what year this is from and is there anything special/particular info about it?

PS I am not worried about “worth” because it’s a family item that I will continue passing around; but if you have an idea of worth, it would be fun to know. 🙂

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Thanks so much in advance!

full body front – full body back – front of headstock – back of headstock – head – back of bod – outside of case – inside of banjo case (edited to say that the case could be a replacement but wondered about it as well.)

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