To most mandolin players, the Gibson F-5s built by Gibson during Lloyd Loar's tenure are cosidered to be among the finest ever produced. This mandolin was signed and dated by Mr. Loar on February 26, 1923, a batch which produced instruments played by Doyle Lawson and Bill Monroe among others (Bill's main Loar was from the July 9, 1923 batch). It has the volume and tone that are synonymous with these instruments, and according to many well-known virtuosos this is among the finest examples.

The mandolin, number 72204, features typical Loar appointments: carved top, parallel tone bar construction, one-piece curly maple neck, abalone flowerpot headstock inlay, original hand-engraved tailpiece, pick guard following body points, all hardware silver plated, and a beautiful light Cremona shaded-sunburst varnish finish. It is original with the exception of reproduction Waverly tuners that are installed (the originals are in the case and still in working order), a period truss rod cover, and a refret done by Charlie Derrington. Once in our possession, Stephen Gilchrist repaired a single top crack that was in need of attention. The previous (and second) owner of the instrument removed the finish from the back of the neck during his tenure as the owner. He owned the mandolin for 45 years before selling it to us, playing it in a recording bluegrass band from east Tennessee for many years. Includes the original factory case.

Listen to Sierra Hull play this mandolin a bit, then our pal Simon Dunson below!