Gibson F-12 Model Carved Top Mandolin (1965), made in Kalamazoo, Michigan, sunburst lacquer finish, figured maple back, sides and neck; spruce top, original black hard shell case.
An interesting and particularly good sounding mid-60's F-12 with some unusual features. The truss rod cover carries an "Custom" engraving and the fingerboard appears to be original with F-5 style pearl blocks inlaid instead of dots. The original tailpiece and strap button are gold-plated, making this F-12 a more deluxe instrument than the average 1965 example. Definitely a picker's choice and an especially nice 1960's Gibson.
This instrument was previously owned and used by David Grisman, and comes with a letter signed by him attesting to this provenance.
Overall length is 28 in. (71.1 cm.), 10 in. (25.4 cm.) width, and 1 5/8 in. (4.1 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 14 in. (356 mm.). Width of nut is 1 1/4 in. (32 mm.).
Very nice overall; back of neck worn down to the wood and light playwear to body finish. Binding replaced on treble side of neck. Tuners are modern pearl-button gold-plated openback units, other hardware original. Generally Excellent Condition.
