1997 Flatiron A5 Artist Mandolin

(Serial #7112059) Excellent condition, dark sunburst lacquer finish. Want the sound and playability of a Flatiron F5 Artist at a more affordable price? This is the classic Flatiron mandolin in an "A" body style. These came in two trim levels - the Artist is the higher grade version. It has the long neck, f-holes, bound top, back, fingerboard and peghead, elevated flat ebony fingerboard with extension, pearl flowerpot and logo, solid heavily flamed maple back, sides and neck, fully bound, solid Sitka spruce top, and gold hardware with pearl buttons on the tuners. This mandolin has a Nashville label but was probably built in the Bozeman, MT plant and finished in Nashville, as this was the time frame that Gibson was shifting production from Bozeman to Nashville. The Artist series mandolins have X top bracing, which many pickers think gives a more percussive chop. Must work - this one has the good bluegrass chop for sure. This mandolin has nice low action and has strong tone and good volume. Just completely refretted and set up by luthier Marty Beeson. No structural repairs noted. It shows some wear on the tailpiece cover. Comes with the original shaped hardshell case

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