1924 Gibson A4 mandolin, serial number 75899
Gibson A4 mandolin, serial number 75899, Factory Order Number 11897. In our experience, the 1920s Gibsons with the “snakehead” pegheads are always the best sounding A model mandolins, and this one is no exception. The tone is very full, balanced, with great volume and projection. This A4 has the powerful bass notes associated with the best oval hole models, and a remarkably strong, bell-like treble with great sustain, which I find difficult to find in many oval-hole mandolins. Although the FON was stamped on the neck block at the end of 1923, the serial number puts it the middle of the sequence of the highly celebrated Lloyd Loar signed F-5s dated March 31, 1924. There is evidence that it has been played, and there are a few extremely minor pick marks on the top above the sound hole.
Features and appointments of Gibson A-4 # 75899 are consistent with factory specifications for that model and year and include carved top; oval sound hole bound with ivoroid and rope-pattern wood rings; one-piece mahogany neck; book-matched well-figured birch back; red spruce top; peghead inlay consisting of mother-of-pearl “The Gibson” and abalone Fleur-de-lis; elevated pick guard; maroon sunburst shaded finish with varnish finish; ebony fingerboard with front and side position markers; adjustable and compensated bridge; elevated pick guard; nickel-silver plated hardware; arrow-point Waverly tuners with ivoroid buttons; “The Gibson” stamped tailpiece; bone nut and original Geib and Schaefer case, which is intact and completely functional, although showing some travel wear.
There is no doubt that Gibson workers put extra thought, energy and love into the creation of this model A4. Despite the fact that such mandolins in similar condition are available in the $7500 range in some of the large stores in New York and Nashville, we believe in helping out the players and are now offering Gibson A4 #75899 at the discounted price of only $5550 (which includes UPS ground shipping east of Mississippi and shared costs in other destinations.