1915 Gibson A-1 Mandolin – Used

This Gibson A-1 was built in Kalamazoo in 1915, so it’s celebrating its 111th birthday this year. (Or, as a hobbit would say, it’s turning eleventy-one this year.) Happily, it has survived in remarkably good and original condition and still has its original tuners, pickguard, and tailpiece with the engraved cover. The original frets are worn but they are playable. The neck is straight, the action is low, and it delivers the round, bubbly tone that made these mandolins popular in 1915, and every year since then. The original shellac varnish finish does have a fine pattern of crazing, but hey, if any of us make to 109 we’ll be lucky if we look this good. Includes the original hardshell case.