Perry
Nov-11-2009, 10:18am
Hi
A friend has this mandolin and would like to sell it. We have no idea what it is worth or who the builder is...there is no label or anything on the inside.
I've posted a few pix (sorry for the quality)
Does anybody have any info they can provide or where might be a good place to look?
Thanks
Perry
MikeEdgerton
Nov-11-2009, 10:47am
I'll say built by Oscar Schmidt (look at the pickguard) and the tuners aren't original. Hopefully Jim Garber will jump in with a catalog page. As for value, these things don't break the bank.
Here's (http://www.elderly.com/vintage/items/90U-5332.htm) a 12-string model at Elderly.
Schlegel
Nov-11-2009, 10:54am
It's an Oscar Schmidt from (most likely) the early 1900's. They were later bought by Washburn, which still owns the name. Most 12 string mandolins that turn up in America seem to be Oscar Schmidts, IME.
It won't go for a lot of money, not being one of the most desirable names, but in it's favor it looks at first glance to be in good shape, and appears to be a cut above the usual Schmidt in quality, with the waverly tail and extended fingerboard. The usual Schmidt might be $100 to $200, you should be able to add a premium on this for condition and quality, but it's tough to sell an American bowlback for more than $300 apart from specific collectable names or super-fancy examples. Good pics of the action height and any neck bow will help buyers be sure if they want to go for it. That's critical on these guys from before truss rods and adjustable bridges.
(edit): Those non original tuners are going to hurt you some. good catch Mike.