Gibson has unveiled a new limited edition 5 string banjo with a Christmas theme, in a production run of only 12 banjos.

This is a flame maple banjo, with gold-plated parts, that sports a brand new inlay pattern from Darron DuBose, unique to this model. The fingerboard features a red and green holly pattern, with a different 12th fret inlay in each individual instrument. One has a Christmas wreath, another a number of wrapped gifts, yet another has a pair of snowflakes – each one will have a distinctive 12th fret inlay.

The resonator has a stunning pattern of pearl in a multi-colored, multi-part inlay with a large snowflake in the center.

Gibson shows this banjo with a manufacturer’s advertised price of $9,999.00 with a hard shell case.

We spoke with Jeff Sullivan at First Quality Musical Supply this morning, who has worked with Gibson on this model since its inception. Jeff said that they have one sold already, and it will be delivered in time for Christmas. He thinks they could still get one more out in time to slide under the tree.

You can reach Jeff at 502-386-3031.

Gibson has three more of these banjos being finished now, which can be delivered shortly after Christmas. Unless there is a sudden rush of orders, the remaining seven will probably not be built until late in 2009.

So, if you have a banjo player on your Christmas list…

Thanks also to Jim Davis at Janet Davis Music and John Drummond at Banjo.com – both Gibson banjo dealers as well – for information regarding this unique, 12-of-a-kind banjo.