Used Gibson A-2Z

With its natural top finish, snakehead headstock, and 2-ply body binding, the A-2Z is a rare and unique model made for just a few years during the golden age of Gibson mandolin production. This example bears the FON# 11949, which dates it back to 1924, the tail-end of the fabled Lloyd Loar era. This instrument has been well-preserved and remains in fantastic condition with no cracks or structural issues. A blacklight reveals some finish work/overspray on the treble side of the body and on the back, while the top finish appears to be completely original. The original pickguard, tuning machines, and tailpiece are all in great shape and the adjustable ebony bridge looks to be a replacement. The label is intact and in remarkably legible condition. The ebony fretboard still sports the original set of frets, with minor wear visible in the first few positions, but every fret plays cleanly without buzz all the way up the neck.

A-2Zs have a reputation for sounding great, and this one is no exception. Its tone is noticeably more focused and precise than the earlier A-styles we've had around the shop, with a clear and cutting quality more often associated with mandolins with f-holes. It still retains heaps of vintage character and a classic old-time voice but is more capable of bridging the gap to bluegrass than most of the early 1900s oval holes we've heard. Professionally setup with blazing low action and a nice straight neck with D'Addario 11-40 gauge strings.

• 1924
• Carved Adirondack spruce top w/ natural finish
• Birch body (possibly maple but inconclusive)
• Mahogany neck w/ ebony fretboard
• Adjustable truss rod
• Grained ivoroid binding
• 1-1/16" nut width
• 14" scale length
• Original open-gear tuning machines
• Original Gibson tailpiece
• Replacement adjustable ebony bridge

Includes original hard-shell case.