Mandolin Central

Gibson F-5 # 87367  Produced in the post Loar period, factory order number 9681.  This is a wonderful instrument, strong full sound with great balance and impressive volume. The wood selection on this mandolin is stunning, with tight cross-grain in the top and flame in the maple back and neck. At one time, this was the main instrument of Danny Roberts, the brilliant mandolinist for the award winning band, "The Grascals."  Excellent professional job of refinish to original specifications by Mike Spicer of Ontario, Canada.  Since that time, a radius fingerboard was added by Robert Sherman in California. Action and playability are optimal, it is indeed a fine professional grade instrument.  According to Joe Spann, author of “Spann’s Guide To Gibson,” the history of this instrument includes the following appearances in Gibson records:  On  16 June 1936 it was part of a large group of Gibson instruments sent to a music dealers show in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It did not sell at the show and  was once again returned to the factory. Then, on 17 July 1936 it was sent to  Lyon & Healy in Chicago as part of a large order. It is my belief that this is one of the mandolins on display in the photo of the Lyon and Healy front window on page 193 in Mr. Spann's book. On 23rd March 1937 the mandolin was shipped to  "Smith Music Service."  This extraordinary instrument is now ready for another 90 years of service, so please inquire for terms, including price and delivery information.

Below, we invite you to listen to Gibson F5 87365 as Tony Williamson playes “Manha de Carnival” and “Tico Tico.”