A strong case can be made that Orville Gibson invented the modern mandolin, by combining violin-building techniques into traditional mandolin designs. The flat or bent tops and bowl backs were replaced with carved, arched tops and backs. Most manufacturers quickly followed Gibson’s lead.
This design breakthrough dramatically improved the tone and projection of the mandolin design and spurred the creation of related instruments, including the Gibson Mandocello Style K1 seen here.
The Gibson Mandocello was built between 1902 and 1943, as the Style K1. The Style K2 was built from 1902 to 1922, and was basically a dressed-up version of the K1.
This 1921 Gibson Mandocello Style K1 is in excellent physical and playing condition. The top is carved spruce, the back is carved maple, and the sides are maple. The neck is mahogany with an ebony fingerboard. The bridge has been replaced with a newer rosewood model. The original brown finish is in good shape with expected wear and sinking, but no major damage. There are no visible signs of cracks or structural repairs. It has likely been refretted at some point, and there is minor fretwear.
The open tuners are original, with ivoroid buttons; the tailpiece and faux tortoise pickguard are original. At some point, a strap pin was added to the heel on the treble side, and this has been removed.
Serial Number: 67763, built during 1921 at the Gibson plant in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
Pricing: $3,350.00 Canadian with original Case.
Status: SOLD
