1913 Gibson F-2 Mandolin - Used

This Gibson F-2 is in excellent structural and playing condition (the FON 2207 is listed in Spann's Guide for F-2 models in 1913). The neck angle is excellent, the neck is straight and was given new frets in the original style. The finish shows a small number of scuffs and scratches but it has a lovely patina with consistent light crazing and has never been oversprayed. It still has its original Handel tuners and tailpiece but the pickguard is long gone and the adjustable bridge is a replacement. Gibson had their oval soundhole mandolins dialed in by the mid-'teens, and this example from 1913 shows the results of all that practice. Only finish issue we should point out is that the curl on the headstock has seen some touch-up, but there's no sign it was ever cracked so we're guessing the wear is from an odd choice of where to hang a strap. This F-2 has a light, bubbly tone and while the chop chords might not drive a bluegrass band it works very well for Celtic, jazz, old-time and just about every other style that welcome strong, ringing trebles. Includes its original shaped hardshell case that is in excellent condition throughout, even the original handle!