1918 Gibson F4

An incredible sounding "player grade" Gibson F4 with enough going on to make the price about half of a pristine original example, for those interested in that great vintage Gibson sound at a great deal.

First we will list the reasons this is not a collector grade instrument: At some point the mandolin finish was oversprayed with lacquer. This was done long ago as the finish has many imprints/blemishes/dings/scratches on top of the overspray. There is also the remnants of some pickup mounting material. There are a couple of well repaired top cracks (tight, repaired with hide glue). The pick guard is missing. The tuners are replacements. The original fixed bridge has been shimmed (this would be great candidate to convert to a modern adjustable bridge since it is already not original). There is a small section of replaced binding on the treble side of the neck. The original case is included, but it is extremely worn. There is some fret wear on the lower 5 frets but they do not pose any issues at the moment.

Ok, on to the good!.. This is an outstanding sounding example of a vintage F4. It has the iconic deep and hollow sound, but is not overly "tubby" sounding or out of balance like some of these can tend to be. Very crisp and clear with wonderful definition and depth behind every note. Easily one of the best sounding F4s that we have had come through the shop over the years. The current set up is very low and comfortable and plays easily in all positions. Even with the low action the notes ring out true all the way into the upper register of the neck. This is a great deal on a fantastic sounding F4 for those not concerned about originality and collectability.