1918–1919 Gibson F-4 Mandolin – Vintage Oval Hole – All Original Parts & Case

Offered here is a beautiful circa 1918–1919 Gibson F-4 mandolin, one of Gibson’s highly ornate carved-top oval-hole mandolins from the company’s early Kalamazoo period.

This F-4 has a tremendous amount of character and presents beautifully, with its deep reddish-brown finish, elaborate bound scroll body, oval soundhole with decorative rosette, bound fingerboard, ornate pearl-inlaid “The Gibson” headstock, and engraved “The Gibson” tailpiece cover.

The mandolin appears remarkably complete and retains a wonderful vintage appearance. It comes with the original hardshell case shown in the photographs, with green plush interior.

Important condition note: there is a separation around the heel / body joint area, clearly documented in the photographs. Because of this, I am selling the instrument as a restoration mandolin and have not attempted to repair it myself.

The top itself presents very nicely for an instrument more than a century old, with normal finish wear, checking, scratches, small marks and other evidence of age and use. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they are an important part of the condition description.

These early Gibson F-4s are increasingly difficult to find, particularly examples that retain so much period character and hardware. Once properly restored, this should make an exceptional vintage instrument as well as a very attractive piece of early Gibson history.

Details:

• Gibson F-4 mandolin
• Circa 1918–1919
• Made in Kalamazoo, Michigan
• Carved scroll-body construction
• Oval soundhole
• Bound body, neck/headstock and scroll
• Ornate pearl headstock inlay
• “The Gibson” engraved tailpiece cover
• Adjustable bridge
• Original tuners with ivoroid-style buttons
• Beautiful aged reddish-brown finish
• Period hardshell case included
• Heel/body-joint separation requiring repair
• Sold as a restoration project / as-is

I have intentionally left the repair untouched so the next owner can choose the luthier and restoration approach appropriate for an instrument of this age and value.

Ask any questions!