Collings MTO Honey Amber gloss top

[J.C. Bryant]

I have just received a "new to me" Collings MTO, gloss top honey amber. the prior owner produced a significant scar, 1.5 inch, on the top near lower edge of fingerboard, with fingernail ( I presume). It is through the finish and slightly into the wood. What stain would I use and how would I best proceed in lessening the cosmetic damage? Or should I just leave it alone? Actually, it in no way effects the pllaying or sound of the mandolin.

[CarlM]

Attempts to fix finish almost always make it worse. Even professionals treat it as a place where angels fear to tread.

[mojocaster]

1. I'd leave it alone.
2. So you bought a mandolin that used to belong to Edward Scissorhands? That's kinda cool.

[J.C. Bryant]

Thank you! I agree!

[Rob Roy]

If it really bothers you, put a finger rest on the instrument. If it truly is all the way through the finish and you're seeing raw wood, an experience luthier can drop fill it with lacquer but it will still be visible, perhaps even more so.