Realistic Value of a Particular Mandolin

[lostsailor]

A Gibson F5 may be coming up for local sale. I have no financial connection, and I haven't seen it in person yet, but I'd like to get some feel for a realistic value in today's market.

It's a 2001 F5 Fern Master Model, signed by Danny Roberts.

I realize that condition is an important factor.

Can anyone here weigh in on this?

Much appreciated!

[FLATROCK HILL]

I passed on a 2001 Roberts signed Fern a few years ago. It was in super nice condition with original burgundy lined case. One of the first years with the dovetail neck joint IIRC. All good stuff but I just wasn't sold on the tone. Looking back, I probably should have bought it, played it for a while and given it a fair chance... set-up, strings etc.

The asking price was 5K. I think that's right there in the ballpark as far a price for that year and model. A really great condition, great sounding example should bring more. A dud... not as much.

[addamr]

These days probably 6000-6500 range for one in nice shape. Looks good and ready to play.

Adam

[lostsailor]

Thanks for your responses. Very helpful.

[FLATROCK HILL]

There's an f5L Fern in the Classifieds almost 10 years older than yours. Average condition from what I can tell. The music store that is selling it is asking 10K. Not sure if this info helps you or not but I thought I'd add it for your consideration.

If there's a good answer to your question, I think it is... Ask whatever you want to ask and hope for the best.

[rcc56]

The store mentioned in the previous post often lists used instruments at 50% to 80% greater than standard market prices.
Some of their used instruments have been sitting there for years without selling.
I would look elsewhere to estimate an instrument's realistic market value.