Extremely rare Epiphone Recording Deluxe plectrum banjo, featuring desirable late period Art Model specs including engraved Dragon on peghead face...ebony and gold! The 11" diameter rim assembly is of ebony, with gold plated and engraved metal parts... floral engraved X flange, lightly worn armrest, side grooved tension hoop, and tailpiece, raised head tonering with single coordinator rod; top veneer of the resonator is of two segments of black and white pyralin, separated by bands of colorful marquetry, floral engraved back; light finish checking, dings, and surface separations on marquetry in some spots. The 27" scale gaboon ebony neck features a hand carved heel in floral design, with intricate colorful marquetry beneath the bound fingerboard and peghead overlay; binding and nut appear to be later, with possible refret; fingerboard alternates between engraved blocks of pearloid and blank ebony, with proud engraved pearl dragon bisected by Epiphone Recording logo; equipped with original gold plated and engraved Grover off-set tab tuners with pearl buttons. A wonderfully playing banjo, with extremely minimal forward relief, small chip on heel cap, and surface finish chips on peghead face near tuner. Well cared for and lovingly maintained, tone is even and rich.