C. F. Martin Style A Model Flat Back Mandolin (1953), made in Nazareth, PA, serial # A-21195, natural lacquer finish, mahogany body and neck, spruce top, black chipboard case.
Overall length is 24 in. (61 cm.), 9 5/8 in. (24.4 cm.) width, and 3 in. (7.6 cm.) deep. Scale length is 13 in. (330 mm.).
This mandolin is nicely preserved overall, showing not much play time for its 65+ years on the planet. The original lacquer finish shows some checking and very light wear. There are several small filled chips to the finish around the base of the bridge -- other than that, just some light handling wear and tiny dings. It is also all original and complete, including the oft-missing tailpiece cover which shows some light corrosion. This Style A plays as well as any we have ever seen, with the bright bouncy tone typical of these flat-back Martin As. A very nice example and an excellent old time or recording mandolin. Excellent Condition.
