Summary
1941 manufacture date (traditional estimates)
1941 shipment date, according to Spann's Guide to Gibson
Mandolin, Style F4
Serial 97218
Factory order number unknown
Description
Very good plus condition showing playing wear but no repairs. Sunburst top finish with a dark finish maple back and sides. F-4 mandolins from the 40's are very rare - they were all built to custom order at the factory. This one has the truss rod, the tapered peghead, the Fern peghead inlay and the herringbone rosette around the soundhole. The mandolin is heavily finish checked. There is some pickwear on the top beside the fingerboard on the bass side that has been touched up. The bridge is a excellent Dan Smith reproduction of a vintage ebony Loar era bridge. Tuners are replaced with Schallers. Neck is straight and the frets are good. The mandolin plays great. Here's the best part - the sound is amazing! Its loud, woody, and with all the complex tones you expect out of a vintage instrument. Comes with the original hardshell case.
