1995 Rich & Taylor, J.D. Crowe Model, complete with capo, tracks, strap, tuner, mute, and hard-shell case.
20 hole Tennessee tone ring, inside of resonator signed with a gold pen by J.D. in 1998.
This is an incredible machine that I truly hate to sell, but am no longer able to play.
Located near Ottawa, Ontario
Rich & Taylor Models and Signature Series:
Rich & Taylor produced several models during their brief existence, including highly sought-after signature models developed with legendary bluegrass artists:
J.D. Crowe Signature Model: The J.D. Crowe model has an interesting origin story. The prototype was actually a custom build Greg Rich had promised to professional player Dennis Caplinger, telling him “I’ll build you a real banjo.” Before presenting it to Dennis, Greg and Mark took it to a show in Texas to demonstrate their work—it was their only finished banjo at the time. J.D. Crowe played it, loved it, and immediately ordered one just like it. What had been Dennis Caplinger’s custom build instantly became the J.D. Crowe signature model prototype, after which all others were modeled. (Dennis Caplinger’s original doesn’t bear the signature block inlay since it became a J.D. model after it was made.)
The Crowe model featured mahogany construction and often included the resuscitated inlay pattern that Gibson later used for their Blackjack model. Players consistently praise the Crowe model for its rich, powerful tone and exceptional craftsmanship.
Rich & Taylor Sound Characteristics:
What made Rich & Taylor banjos special? Players and collectors consistently describe these qualities:
• Exceptional depth and bass response – Rich, full low end that adds power and complexity
• Crystal-clear note separation – Each note rings distinctly, especially up the neck
• Powerful projection – Volume and presence that commands attention
• Pre-war Gibson character – That elusive vintage tone refined and perfected
• Outstanding playability – Comfortable necks, perfect setup, professional feel
• Consistency – Unlike some brands with hit-or-miss quality, R&T banjos were uniformly excellent
• Professional-grade tone – Suitable for recording and performance at the highest levels
Players often note that Rich & Taylor banjos hold their own against any Gibson, including vintage pre-war instruments. Joe Mullins, the respected bluegrass professional, played a Rich & Taylor for years, testament to their professional-grade quality.
Why Rich & Taylor Banjos Are Highly Collectible:
Several factors make Rich & Taylor banjos increasingly valuable and sought-after:
Limited Production (1993-1999): Only six years of production means relatively few instruments exist compared to major manufacturers. Scarcity drives collectibility.
Greg Rich’s Golden Touch: These represent Greg Rich’s vision unbounded by corporate constraints—his designs built exactly as he intended with no compromises.
Exceptional Build Quality: The craftsmanship in Rich & Taylor banjos is outstanding. These weren’t production-line instruments but handcrafted banjos built by masters.
Professional Endorsements: Signature models from J.D. Crowe, Sonny Osborne, Don Reno, and Terry Baucom add historical significance and desirability.
Tone That Rivals Vintage Gibsons: Players consistently report that Rich & Taylor banjos sound as good as or better than many vintage Gibsons, at a fraction of the cost.
Historical Significance: These instruments represent a specific moment when two master craftsmen created something exceptional. They’re part of bluegrass banjo history.
The “Other” Pre-War Gibsons: Since Greg Rich designed the late-1980s/early-1990s Gibsons and then built R&T banjos to his own specifications, Rich & Taylor instruments are essentially “Greg Rich era Gibson” designs—but often built even better since he had complete control.
Investment Value: Rich & Taylor banjos have steadily appreciated in value and command premium prices in the used market. Well-maintained examples often sell for $4,000-$8,000 or more, depending on model, condition, and tone ring type. Signature models in excellent condition, can command even higher prices.
