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Thread: Looking for advice for a 1918 Gibson Model A

  1. #1

    Default Looking for advice for a 1918 Gibson Model A

    I was given an old mandolin only to discover it is a vintage Gibson. It is in pretty rough shape, as you can see.

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    The back of the mandolin has two fairly large cracks and is also separating from the body.

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    There are several other areas of concern but I don't want to overwhelm everyone with photos.

    I would love to bring this instrument back to life but I'm not sure if it is salvageable. Any opinions or suggestions for luthiers in Alabama/Georgia are welcome and appreciated.

  2. #2
    Teacher, repair person
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    Default Re: Looking for advice for a 1918 Gibson Model A

    Your mandolin appears to be salvageable.
    I do this sort of work. I am in the Chattanooga area.
    You are welcome to pm me.

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  4. #3
    Registered User Russ Donahue's Avatar
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    Default Re: Looking for advice for a 1918 Gibson Model A

    Those are workhorses with great sound. Well worth bringing back to life.
    Make America Grateful Again!

    2013 Collings MF, 2017 Northfield NF2S, 2019 Northfield Big Mon F
    1968 Martin D12-20, 2008 Martin HD28, 2022 Martin CEO 7
    1978 Ibanez Artist "Flying Eagle" Masterclone Banjo

  5. #4
    Registered User kitniyatran's Avatar
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    Default Re: Looking for advice for a 1918 Gibson Model A

    Definitely worth it!
    Breedlove Cascade
    Gibson A2 (1920?)
    Washburn 215 bowlbackcirca 1906-07
    Guitars: Guild D25, Guild JF30, both 1990's archbacks
    Epiphone Galaxie EA33RVT amp, circa 1965.
    (Nothing electric to plug in to it.)
    Marine Band & Johnson harmonicas
    The player formerly known as "Mandosquirrel"

  6. #5
    Registered User Tavy's Avatar
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    Default Re: Looking for advice for a 1918 Gibson Model A

    I wish someone would give me one of those!

    Definitely worth fixing, both financially, and in terms of bang-for-your-buck (as long as you want a mandolin that is)!

  7. #6

    Default Re: Looking for advice for a 1918 Gibson Model A

    Thanks, everyone. It seems unanimous that it needs to be repaired.

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