1930s Gibson A4

Early 30's Gibson A4 in overall good vintage condition. The top has a well repaired center seam separation, but the mandolin is otherwise crack free with no evidence of other prior repairs. Has dings, checking, and finish abrasions consistent with the age of the instrument. All seams are tight and the arch of the top is perfect. There is some binding shrinkage but it is intact with no splits. The pick guard is missing, leaving the mounting holes exposed. The tuners are newer replacement Golden Age (reverse) tuners and the bridge is also a replacement.

This mandolin does not have a label (common for this era) but what we have seen based on the FON number dates it to 1934. Common for this year is the oval hole version of an A-50, but we cannot find an example of an A-50 that has the "fleur de lis" headstock inlay or the A4 style rosette of this mandolin, hence our conclusion that it is an A4.

This is a wonderful sounding mandolin with a sweet, balanced tone. It exhibits just enough of the iconic Gibson deep tubby character to come through, but not overpower the midrange like some of the old ovals tend to do. The mandolin plays great with a low and comfortable setup, with plenty of room in the bridge and truss rod for adjusting to personal preference. For those not deterred by the un-original aspects, this represents a value opportunity in a great sounding vintage Gibson mandolin. Modern TKL hardshell case included.