Got any more details? I've just tried a search on Hohner banjo on google and come up with one place where mention of an instrument made in Japan which was fitted with a flat head tone ring which apparrently played well and another site (OK the model was a tenor) was a Korean 1990's made thing with an alloy construction - looked a cheapy. I would guess Honer have had these things made or badged in the East for some time and quality could be variable.

The only Hohner stringed instruments I have come accross have been guitars and all bar one has really (at least IMO and I'm expecting to get flamed) have been in the "boxwood" category. The exception which someone I knew found was a real gem, very well made and with a good tone.

Jon