National Triolian Mandolin (1937)

Description

Before amplification became commonplace, musicians were relatively limited in their ability to make themselves louder - hence the immense popularity of resophonic instruments during the Jazz Age and the Depression era, like this 1937 National Triolian mandolin. Specialized for volume by way of a full-sized, 9.5 inch cone just like the one in the far more common Triolian guitar, this high-end steel-bodied A-style would have had no trouble reaching the cheap seats in its earliest days as a working musician's instrument in a Dixie jazz band or a pre-war mandolin orchestra. But the Triolian isn't simply loud, it's rich and complex, thanks to National's legendary craftsmanship and quality of build, on full display in this remarkably well-preserved example. Best of all is the faux rosewood finish and the too-cool striped pickguard, key calling cards of late 1930s Triolians and an irreplaceable X factor that pushes this instrument up and over the top into a true must-have for collectors and fans of Depression-built Nationals.

This instrument arrived in our store in excellent condition relative to its age, with playing wear well below the norm. The wood grain finish is largely intact, with most wear confined to light scuffing on the coverplate as well as a few slightly deeper scuffs and scratches on the back, likely from buttons on a coat. There are some light chips in the finish on the corners of the instrument, but no significant bare patches that compromise the visual beauty of the mandolin. The set up is very good, with comfortable, playable action in all positions on the fingerboard. A small amount of separation has begun between the neck heel and the body, but is not severe enough to require reattaching or bolting the neck. All parts appear to be original, including the tuners, tailpiece, and of course, the pickguard. Included in the price is the original hard-shell case.

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