Old Bowl back

[rfrey53]

Can anyone tell me the maker of this 1900s bowl back mandolin?It's been in the family since the late1800s or early 1900s and it has no markings on it and it needs to be worked on or refurbished.9625096251

[Jim Garber]

American, prob made in Chicago. Is the pickguard inlaid or is it painted on. It looks rather plain and low level. What work does it need. I would not do anything too expensive unless it has sentimental value to you. Interesting wood on the bowl. Either plain stained maple or possibly cherry?

[rfrey53]

the pickguard is painted on,the wood is in great shape/some rust on metal parts/what do you think it's worth? thanks for the quick reply

[Flybear]

inlaid. bottom part of inlay around sound hole missing. no other work reqd. Maple I figure

[Flybear]

sorry ..wrong post

[Jim Garber]

Wait! Who is Flybear? I am confused. Do you own this or refrey53? How do you know it is inlaid. Rfrey says painted.

[tmsweeney]

I have one very similar to that - and previous inquires pointed to a turn of the century Chicago manufacturer

not even worth the $100 I pay for it - looks charming on the shelf

[Jim Garber]

the pickguard is painted on,the wood is in great shape/some rust on metal parts/what do you think it's worth? thanks for the quick reply

Not too much. That is why I said don't put too much into it. If the tuners work, fit it with a bridge and string it up with ultralight strings. Of course, if you can do the work yourself, then it might be worth doing. Prob would sell on eBay for maybe $50-75, as-is.

[rfrey53]

Thank you Mr.garber