1935 Gibson A00 Sunburst

Gibson A-00 1935 | $1450 | (v 2157) The Gibson A-00 mandolin was introduced in 1933, and had a run of ten years. In 1934, the model transitioned from round sound hole to 'f'-holes and an elevated pick guard. In 1935, the A-00 was likely Gibson's entry-level mandolin in its line up, but still featued a solid, carved top and was constructed with quality materials and craftsmanship.

This example is stamped inside the 'f'-hole with an 'A', signifying its year of manufacture, 1935. The top is carved spruce with some nice curl or silking visible through the sunburst top. A nickel-plated clam shell covers the tail piece. The (flat) back and sides are likely maple and stained a very dark mahogany. The top is bound in white celluloid, and sports an elevated, faux-tortoise pickguard. The neck is mahogany, finished in the same dark color as the back and sides. The finger board is Brazilian rosewood and features a number of pearl position markers. The head stock is painted black with the Gibson logo in white paint. The tuners are brass Kluson with bushings.

The body measures 10 1/8" across at the lower bout. Scale length is 13 7/8". The neck measures 1 3/16" across at the nut and string spacing is 1 5/8" across at the bridge/saddle. Action is set at 5 & 6/64".

The mandolin is very clean and all original, including its soft case. The only repair is a re-glue of a 2" back/side separation. First position frets show some evidence of playing wear, otherwise the overall mandolin appears near mint, with only a few nicks and scrapes on the top.

A sweet, high-quality instrument for old time music.

Comes with its original soft case (in good condition, but not excellent).