1914 Gibson F-4

1914 Gibson F4 in good vintage condition. There are three repaired cracks (hide glue) and all of the usual wear and finish abrasions of virtually any instrument over 100 years old. 100% structurally sound maintaining perfect arching and none of the  seam separations that sometimes are present from this period.

From a tone and playability standpoint this is certainly one of the best F4s that we have ever encountered. It has the classic low end and "hollow" sound of vintage Gibson oval hole mandolins, but this one also has the most wonderful crisp and articulate clarity and note separation that could ever be asked of this model. Outstanding balance across the strings and up the neck. We believe the only thing that is not original to the instrument are the frets, which are of the larger modern type. Coupled with perfect neck relief and the outstanding set-up, this makes for an easy playing experience more like playing a newer mandolin than a vintage model.

Aesthetic wise, this is a drop dead gorgeous vintage instrument that shows its age in just the right way (our opinion). Yes, it exhibits wear, but its honest and you can tell that the instrument has been played and cared for during its life. Call it character, or mojo, or whatever, it is just an exceedingly cool mandolin to look at. It looks like it sounds amazing, and it certainly does! We are always a sucker for a beautiful one piece back too! Comes with its original case, that is in pretty rough shape but still functions well.