The reason for emphasizing "signed" in the listing title, is because time after time, you'll see listings of Lyon and Healy Banjos ... unsigned ... billed as "Elias Howe Superbo" banjos. There's one on eBay right now. I've seen a half a dozen such listings in the last year. To clearly identify it as an Elias Howe banjo ... it must have the brand. Without it, its an unsigned banjo.This would probably be considered a higher mid grade instrument. Its got the quality of the highest grades offered, but lacks more expensive ornamental details such as metal engraving and heel carving. The 5th string tuner is modern, but fitted with a matching vintage button. The tailpiece is a modern reproduction of the popular "No-Knot" tailpiece.In excellent condition with all 30 bracket sets matching. The hooks are nickel plated brass and show some wear here and there, but are all original. I had to reproduce (by hand) 10 of the nuts. In the picture showing 2 brackets ... one nut is original and one is a repro. I'll let you decide which is which. They would not be spotted by even astute observers.Neck has been refinished, and the very tip of the headstock, above the brand, has had a small piece grafted to it. There was a substantial chunk of wood missing, and it bothered me enough to make the repair.There's no case, but shipping an open back without a case and without damage is what we've done for 25 years. We've never lost one to damage.