1988 Flatiron A5-1 Mandolin

(Serial No. 841110435) Excellent condition, sunburst finish. Made just after Gibson accquired Flatiron, so many of the same builders and production techniques were carried over from the pre-Gibson days. When Gibson went to the NAMM show in late 1987, these were the high quality mandolins they were competing with. They couldn't beat them, so they bought the company. Excellent sounding and playing A5 mandolin with flamed maple back, sides and neck, carved spruce top with X bracing, pearl logo, 1 1/8 inch nut, elevated flat ebony fingerboard, and nickel hardware. Finish is original lacquer with a hand applied sunburst stain. Tuners are upgraded to Golden Age (no new holes) with a satin nickle finish, and the tailpiece has been changed to a silver plated James. McClung armrest added but is easily removed. Great playing mandolin that shows just a little playing wear. No repairs noted. The sound is why you want this mandolin. Excellent chop and bark - outstanding bluegrass mandolin. Signed by Steve Carlson, the shop foreman and considered one of the great builders. Bozeman built Flatirons are always heavily in demand. Most pickers won't part with theirs - once you play this one you'll know why. Comes with what I think is the original hardshell case.

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