Gibson Style A (1928)

Description

The Style A may have been the most basic option in Gibson's mandolin lineup back in 1928, but quality materials, high-end craftsmanship, and nearly a century of playing time have turned this one into a behemoth. These instruments paired a spruce top with a birch neck, back, and sides for a bright and clear tone perfectly suited to old time music and American fiddle tunes, and still utilized the pre-Loar style round soundhole for richer lows and a longer sustain. This one features one of Gibson's beautiful late 20s black top finishes, sought after not only for their striking look, but their relative rarity when compared to the more standard amber finishes found on most Style As of this period. While it may not elicit the awe (or the sky-high prices) of the snakehead models from a few years before, these are still exceptional A-styles that would serve intermediate players well as a main instrument, or advanced players as a backup mandolin with some character that they don't have to stress about bringing to jams and festivals.

This instrument arrived in our store in good condition relative to its age. There is significant picking wear on the top, as it parted ways with its original pickguard at an indeterminate point in the past. The pilot holes for the pickguard's screws are still visible on the top and the side of the fingerboard, and have not been filled. The top, back, sides, and neck have seen light refinishing work, likely over 40 years ago. This refinishing does not cover the wear in the top, which is more recent. Overall playing wear falls relatively in line with most instruments of this age, with a fair amount of dents and divots on all planes of the instrument. All hardware is original, and in good working condition. The set up is very good, and the instrument plays well in all positions with a full sound and no fret buzz. This mandolin arrived in our store without a case - we have paired it with a spare Kentucky NuHyde soft-shell case to keep it protected from the elements.

*Please note, per our return policy, all sales on used and consignment instruments are final.*