1918 Vega Model 20 Cylinder Back Mandolin
(Serial No. 35978) Excellent structural condition showing some playing wear. The serial number puts the manufacture date around 1918 - I might be a year off in either direction - there is no exact list of Vega mandolin serial numbers. The cylinder back refers to a cylindrical bulge running longitudinally along the back plate, from the tailpiece to the neck heel. This bulge increases the internal volume of the instrument. The result has been described as a compromise between the earlier bowlback mandolins and the more modern styles with relatively flat backs. This is a Style 202 with a mahogany body and a spruce top. Has an ebony fretboard and bridge. The bone nut is 1 1/8 inch on a flat fretboard. Has a nice herringbone style soundhole rosette and multi-ply top binding with single ply back binding. Original tuners and fancy engraved tailpiece cover. All finish and hardware are original. Excellent sounding mandolin with a sweet tone, not really a bluegrasser but it is excellent for recording or for just having a nice mandolin around.Here is a link to a video of the mandolin as played by James Hurlburt. Good volume and tone. Comes with the probably original hardshell case.
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