1920 Gibson A‑2 Mandolin – Serial 61768 / FON 11339 – Vintage Oval‑Hole Collector Piece

Serial 61768 and FON 11339 confirm this mandolin as an authentic 1920 Gibson A‑2, one of the most sought‑after oval‑hole models from Gibson’s golden era. Collectors prize these early‑20s A‑series instruments for their carved spruce tops, birch back and sides, and the unmistakable warm, resonant tone that defines vintage Gibson mandolins. I received this Mandolin from a lady who said that her grandfather had purchased new back in the day and that it was his prized possession. This A‑2 retains its classic features, including the original “The Gibson” headstock logo and century‑old finish with honest patina. Structurally solid with strong vintage voice, it’s a textbook example of a golden‑era Gibson A‑2 — a highly collectible piece with verified provenance.

  • All Original Parts - Tuning Keys, Tuning Key Grommets, Tailpiece, Pickguard with patent date, Pickguard bracket with patent date, Bridge, Nut, and inside Label. FON number is plainly stamped inside close to the neck joint. Serial number is on the label and appears to be written in pencil.
  • "NO" fret wear. "NO" loose binding
  • Original Period Correct Hardshell Case with Green lining. All latches in working order.
  • No Cracks or Repaired Cracks, or separated wood in glue joints of Top, Back & Sides and neck joint. (see pictures)
  • The only flaw is on the top left of the Headstock where apparently the glue loosened in a spot on headstock overlay and looks like it was re-glued and finished. I don't have records but looks like possibly Gibson did the repair many years ago. I say this because there is not any spotting or anything in the finish and it looks like the finish on the rest of the headstock. (see pictures). What looks to be white in that area is the reflection of light. Only the lines are visible.
  • Only very light surface scratches on the middle of the back probably caused by shirt buttons. One light scratch on the bottom side. (see picture)
  • Pristine Condition for 106-year-old Mandolin and Case.

***********************NO TRADES******NO LOW BALLERS************************

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Listed4 days ago
ConditionExcellent (Used)
Excellent items are almost entirely free from blemishes and other visual defects and have been played or used with the utmost care.Learn more
Brand
Model
  • A-2
Finish
  • Sheraton Brown
Categories
Year
  • 1920
Made In
  • United States

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Jeff's Music Werk's

Kingsport, TN, United States
Joined Reverb:2017

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