Gibson A-00 ? identify year?

[Bert Deivert]

Hi Mando lovers...
I just picked this up yesterday from a banjo dealer here in Sweden who couldn't sell it to the bluegrass players, his main clientele, who want F-models, not A models. He thought it was a Gibson 1930's A-00 model. I notice it looks a bit like some of the A-50s but the tailpiece seems to be the A-00. There are a couple of numbers 83 A, stamped in purple inside it near the f-hole on the bottom (playing) side of of the mandolin. I have looked for info on how to identify it, but to no avail. Anybody might be able to help me?

thanks,
Bert

[natep]

try here (http://www.provide.net/~cfh/gibson8.html#a0)

nice person gave me this link to help me investigate similar instument.

maybe thisthread here (http://www.mandolincafe.net/cgi-bin/ikonboard.cgi?act=ST;f=13;t=18642) will help too. This one is on its way to me.

[natep]

note especially lack of fingerboard binding means its probably not a A-50, i think. also inlays on headstock, and pickguard. let me know if you discover anything.

[wah]

According to that vintage website a factory order number with an A in it would make it a '35. One of the reasons I think mine is a '34 is the FON has no letter in it. Can't tell from the picture if it has a flat or carved back. Does look like a 00 though.

Wayne

[natep]

you know, except for the clamshell tailpiece, and lack of pickguard, it looks EXACTLY like mine. if only i knew what mine was. let me know if you find out.