Gibson F-2 Model Carved Top Mandolin (1913), made in Kalamazoo, Michigan, black finish, birch back and sides, spruce top, mahogany neck.
A great-sounding blackface F-2, from the earliest period of the familiar two-point body shape. At some point (probably around the 1960's or early 70's) this mandolin was re-voiced for a more cutting sound; the result is a roundhole f-style mandolin that holds its own very well in group playing situations without losing its essential tone character.
The original single horizontal brace has been removed and two angled tone bars added, probably including some recarving (from beneath) of the top. Fingerboard and binding are newer and raised slightly, but nut is original. Missing the pickguard, but tailpiece and original inlaid tuners remain, along with a Gibson-style (but probably not original) one-piece compensated bridge.
Original varnish finish has some French polish added, but older checking is still visible�obviously the back was once removed and reglued. Label intact and extremely readable and well-preserved.
This is not a collector's piece, but a unique and fabulous-sounding instrument for a player looking for tone and response beyond what the average early F-style mandolin can offer.
Overall length is 26 1/2 in. (67.3 cm.), 10 in. (25.4 cm.) wide at lower bout, and 1 3/4 in. (4.4 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 14 in. (356 mm.). Excellent playing condition with much reworking as described. Some noticeable finish wear to the top near the treble side of the fingerboard; two small repaired top cracks.
Well-played and ready for more of the same! Very Good + Condition.
