Gibson F-5 #75309 signed February 18, 1924
Gibson F-5 mandolin # 75309, of the fabled early batch of February 18, 1924, has a particular mystique among aficionados of Lloyd Loar-signed mandolins. One of only a couple dozen Virzi-Free mandolins known to have been issued on that date, we are offering a litter mate to the instruments chosen by Chris Thile, John Paul Jones, John Reischman, Gene Johnson and Lloyd Loar himself. These mandolins are famous for their balance, warmth and projection. Features and appointments on Gibson F-5 # 75309 are original and exactly consistent with factory specifications for this model and date; they include the classic carved top and parallel tone bar construction with f-holes and long, one-piece curly maple neck (which places the bridge in the center of the f-holes); headstock inlay consisting of “The Gibson” in mother-of-pearl and abalone flowerpot; pearl button tuners with arrow-head endplate (tuners appear period correct but may have been refurbished and re-plated); hand-engraved tailpiece; pick guard following body points; silver plated hardware; and original dark shaded-sunburst varnish finish. The tailpiece and pick guard and their screws and bushings are all original , as is the original green-lined Geib and Sons case. This mandolin shows much wear wear associated playing but not repair from calamity. Finish is all original, not touched up in any place. In fact, the only repair we have noticed is a re-glued seam separation in the top under the tailpiece. The sound of this mandolin is quite stunning. A combination of excellent wood choices, fine craftsmanship and much use has resulted in one of the finest sounding F-5 we have every played. As we mentioned this mandolin was constructed without Virzi tone producer, making it one of the rarest of that particular day’s output. We are looking to place it in a good home, serious prospects are invited to apply by phone or email for additional photos that document play wear, try-out protocol, pricing and delivery information.