Gold Star Banjos, introduced in the mid-1970s by Richard Keldsen of Saga Musical Instruments, were created to replicate the sought-after pre-war Gibson Mastertone banjos. Collaborating with skilled Japanese luthiers, including the renowned Sumi, Gold Star produced high-quality instruments that garnered acclaim among bluegrass musicians. Production ceased in the late 1980s due to economic factors but resumed in the early 2000s in China, maintaining the brand's commitment to craftsmanship and authentic tone.
Richard Keldsen was frustrated with Gibson’s manufacturing of banjos and decided to set out to make a banjo that could compete with Gibson. Richard connected with instrument makers in Japan to try and replicate the mastertone type bluegrass banjos made by Gibson. He introduced the first Gold Star banjos through his preexisting instrument company, Saga musical instruments. He continues the production of different musical instruments today in San Francisco, CA.
