Re: Martin Mandolin age?
1. A full step lower than standard mandolin tuning would be FCGD.
2. There shouldn't be hyphens in Martin serial numbers. I'm not sure when the "A" prefix was added; my 1920 Style A has no prefix, while a 1931 Martin mandola does have an "A' before the serial number. A 1953 instrument would have the prefix.
3. The quoted price is very reasonable for a Style A (I assume that's what it is) in good, unrepaired, playable shape. Especially if it has a good case. Not sure about the "dark, aged look," but it would be normal for a 65-year-old instrument to have the spruce top darken somewhat.
Allen Hopkins
Gibsn: '54 F5 3pt F2 A-N Custm K1 m'cello
Natl Triolian Dobro mando
Victoria b-back Merrill alumnm b-back
H-O mandolinetto
Stradolin Vega banjolin
Sobell'dola Washburn b-back'dola
Eastmn: 615'dola 805 m'cello
Flatiron 3K OM
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