Gibson A4

[pat14616]

Looking for info on an inherited Gibson A4, serial 20185122584

[Bill Snyder]

Just going on the serial number and looking through the Mandolin Archive I would think it to be a 1915.

[pat14616]

Any idea where I could find a clue as to its value?

[mrmando]

Do you have any more photos, including photos of the headstock and the back?

It's not an A4. It's either an A1 or an A2. Guessing it's an A2 but would need to see a couple more photos with better lighting. Could be 1914 or 1915; we'd need to know the factory order number (stamped inside on the neck block) to be sure. The A2 was discontinued for 1915 to 1917, so if this is an A2 it's likely one of the last pumpkin A2s produced.

It's possible that the tuners have been replaced but I can't tell for sure from this photo. Case, bridge, pickguard and tailpiece are original, as is the finish.

Value could be as much as $900 to $1,000 if it's all there, original and in excellent condition. It'll be worth less if it needs repairs or has any replacement parts.

[pat14616]

now that I look again, that may say A-1122585

[BradKlein]

You can easily find other 'teens A-1 mandolins that have sold on ebay and that will give you a good idea as to value. And if you check reputable vintage instrument dealers, you'll find the retail value of the same things that's been set up and repaired by a luthier. So there's your range.

[mandroid]

I was missing the ivoroid-white ring and redburst color.

[Capt. E]

Check out this thread: http://www.mandolincafe.com/forum/showthread.php?108413-Teens-Gibson-A-prices&p=1315768#post1315768

These days, the one you picture above would sell on Ebay for $900 or so.