Gibson H-2 (1918)

Description

While almost all vintage instruments have a certain amount of panache as a matter of course, it's still hard to overstate the sheer cool factor that surrounds this absolutely lovely 1918 Gibson H-2. A fine example of some of the best mandolas to come out of Kalamazoo in the pre-Loar era, the H-2 combined a spruce top with a mahogany neck and a birch back and sides for a very rich (but never overbearing) tone that all pickers are sure to love. The oval hole and antique-spec Gibson neck joint give the H-2 some stunning lows and mids to complement the already naturally lower register of the instrument, and we're of course huge fans of the vintage cosmetics, with the original celluloid pickguard matching perfectly against the amber red burst finish. Gibson completed the package with cream binding and a fleur-de-lis on the headstock, as well as the classic script logotype that lets everyone at the jam know you're playing the real thing.

This instrument arrived in our store in very good condition, with a below-average amount of cosmetic wear considering its age. The only crack extends down from the bass side of the top parallel with the fingerboard, and is very stable and shows no signs of reopening provided proper humidification and care. The top has become somewhat concave from the constant pressure exerted by the strings and bridge, but the instrument's set up and its neck angle are sufficient to compensate for the sinking in the top, and we don't find any buzz or dead frets anywhere on the fingerboard. All parts are original, including the pickguard, bridge, tuners, and tailpiece, and all are in good structural condition. 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.*