Brand: Gibson
Instrument Categories: Mandolins, SOLD
Built from 1904 to 1934, the Gibson F2 mandolin featured the stylized ‘F’ body with scrollwork, but also an oval sound hole rather than F-holes. Oval sound holes seem to provide a bit more sound to the player, while F-hole models tend to project their sound outwards, further.
It’s always fascinating to see an instrument like this Gibson F2 mandolin, now over a century old and still in good playing condition. It is in largely original and complete condition though the bridge is a replacement, and the case is a newer model. The faux-tortoise pickguard is the original piece.
Based on the groundbreaking designs of Orville Gibson that merged violin, guitar and mandolin construction methods, Gibson mandolins featured a carved Spruce top, paired with a carved back of either Mahogany or Maple. In the case of the F2, the sides and carved back are Mahogany. The neck is also Mahogany with Ebony used for a center stiffening layer, bound fingerboard, the head plate and back strap. At this point, Gibson was not building mandolins with adjustable truss rods. That innovation appeared in 1921, and soon found its way into most models. Mother of Pearl is used for the dot position markers and the script-style ‘The Gibson’ peghead logo. Fret wear is minor.
This wonderful Gibson F2 Mandolin still plays well, and has a full, rich sound.
A non-original hard shell case is included.
Gibson does not presently offer mandolins. For some years following the devastating 2010 Nashville floods, mandolin production ceased. A few years ago, Gibson started shipping a very few mandolins, and perhaps will again.
- Model: F2 Mandolin
- Year: 1911
- Finish Black and Natural Mahogany
- Class: Vintage
- Serial Number: 11627
- Country of Origin: USA
- Condition: Good
- Date Posted: 06/02/2020
- This instrument has been sold
- Consignment Item
- Including Hard case
- Instrument Weight: 2.2lbs 1kg
- Scale Length: 13.9in 352mm
- Nut Width: 1.16in 29.5mm
