Summary
Signed by Lloyd Loar July 9, 1923 manufacture date (traditional estimates)
1923 shipment date, according to Spann's Guide to Gibson
Mandolin, Style F5
Serial 73728
Factory order number unknown
there is no Virzi in this instrument
Description
Well played, but structurally sound, the only repairs have been expertly performed by master luthiers Steve Gilchrist (peghead repair-this repair is invisible, even under black light) and Randy Wood (hairline crack under the pickguard). Note the magic date, shared by the most famous mandolin of all time, the one bought in the Florida barber shop and played for so many years by Bill Monroe. This mandolin has a similar characteristic sound of that great mandolin, coarse and firey when dug into, yet hauntingly bell-like and mysterious when the melodies are gently coaxed. Finish is typical 1923, not too dark, not too light, and neck is perfect for ease of play. All original parts, red-lined Geib and Sons case, a rare piece of history.
DB- this mandolin appears to have a light lacquer topcoat (note the greening of the neck binding and the general sheen to the finish), a trait shared by other July 9 Loars
