Gibson F-5 73987 July 9, 1923
Gibson F-5 # 73987 signed by Lloyd Loar on July 9, 1923. With the strong presence associated with the legendary sound of Bill Monroe, this mandolin exceeds all expectations: powerful, coarse, woody, throaty, clear, keen…all these words apply to the sound of this mandolin. Dial back the right hand and it becomes sweet, bell-like and warm. Basically, any way you steer it, this instrument is ready to take you there in grand style. It has been well played during the past century, and shows it, both in sound and in wear. Structural integrity is guaranteed: it is ready for another century of music!
Features and appointments are original and consistent with many of the factory specifications for this model and year and include the classic arched Adirondack spruce top with parallel tone bar construction and f-holes; one-piece curly maple neck (which places the bridge in the center of the f-holes); back and sides of nicely figured sugar maple; headstock inlay consisting of “The Gibson” in mother-of-pearl and abalone flowerpot; pearl button tuners with notched endplate; hand-engraved tailpiece; all hardware silver plated; white/black/white binding with the black facing top on the body and facing side on the neck and peghead; and Cremona shaded-sunburst varnish finish. Repairs to the mandolin include three tiny screw holes patched in the tip of the back at the heel, and a seamless crack repair on the rim at the upper point. These repairs are so well executed, it’s as if they never happened…as is the case when you send your mandolin to Stephen Gilchrist. Finally, it does not have a Virzi tone producer, nor has it even had such.
Includes original green-lined G&S case; new Hoffee flight case; Waverley tuners (.931 spacing) installed for professional use (originals provided in case). Bridge saddle has been replaced (original also provided) and frets (period correct wire installed by legendary luthier Randy Wood); Steven Gilchrist restoration pick guard. Please inquire for additional photos and our terms of pricing, try-out and delivery.
The signature date on this mandolin also makes us think of Bill Monroe:
…and for something a little jazzy. “Secret Love.”