Gibson A-4 Model Carved Top Mandolin (1916), made in Kalamazoo, sunburst top, dark stained back and sides finish, birch back and sides, spruce top, mahogany neck, black tolex original hard shell case.
The A-4 was Gibson's top-of-the-line "A" style mandolin for much of the company's early history. This fine example from the late 1910's features a beautiful red sunburst top, inlaid grained ivoroid tuner buttons, and a pearl fleur-de-lys and Gibson logo on the headstock.
The A-4 also features a slightly extended fingerboard, primarily a decorative feature found otherwise only on the more elaborate scroll-bodied "F" style mandolins.
The serial number on the original label is illegible, but the factory order number on the neckblock is clearly visible and dates the instrument to the period around 1916-17. A very nice original A-4.
Overall length is 25 1/2 in. (64.8 cm.), 10 1/16 in. (25.6 cm.) wide, and 1 13/16 in. (4.6 cm.) deep. Scale length is 14 in. (356 mm.).
Original finish with average playwear overall; most noticeable on the back of the neck. One area of wear into the wood on the soundhole ring near the fingerboard and one repaired back crack. A small section was cut out of the original pickguard for a pickup long ago.
Pictured with original bridge and pickguard (which are included), but currently set up with Randy Wood adjustable bridge. Recently set up with an expert professional refret; a very nice playing and sounding A-4 with the original hard case. Very Good + Condition.
