Description
Exc. condition • SN: 35353 • 1 3/16″ Width at nut • Handel tuner buttons
This excellent condition 1918 Gibson F-4 is a fine example of an important historic mandolin. Strikingly beautiful one-pc figured Maple back and Maple sides. Mahogany 2-pc neck with stringer. Spruce top. The mandolin is fully bound with ivoroid celluloid bindings, around head stock, fingerboard, top, and back. The Gibson logo inlaid near top of peghead. Ebony veneer. Elaborate double flowerpot inlaid in center of peghead veneer. Pearl nut. Flat ebony finger board with large pearl dot inlays. Original small frets with moderate wear. Fingerboard has double-cut extension over sound hole. Oval sound hole is bound inside with ivoroid, and with ivoroid rosette bordered by wooden houndstooth. Original ebony bridge. Original tortoise celluloid pickguard. Original 2-pc. tailpiece with The Gibson engraved in cover. Original ebony endpin. Appears to be restored to original tuners with Handel inlaid ivoroid buttons. There is evidence a different set of tuners was used for a time. Blackened back of head stock.
There is some finish worn off the back of the “V” profile neck, but no wear through finish on the top, sides or back. Small areas of touch up on spruce top in scroll area (see photos).
This is a very good mandolin with all original parts intact.
The original hard case also comes with this instrument.
- Listen below to Carlo Aonzo, of the Carlo Aonzo Trio, play this fine old F-4.
