1912 Gibson Mandocello & 1927 Gibson F-5 Mandolin

by MobiusDIck
(Atlanta, GA, USA)

Mandocello is in excellent minus condition (scratch on back, normal aging, frets not needing replacement, neck straight)

Mandolin has 2 nicks (not cracks-one on back, one on front), neck is straight, but frets are worn to the 7th fret although there is no buzz, but if it were a mandolin that was non-vintage, I would replace them (should they be replaced on this instrument?-8th fret up has little wear) I would say good plus to very good condition

Can you give me an estimate on value and should frets be replaced on F-5 if there is no buzz?

MobiusDick

ANSWER

Hi, MobiusDick--

I could find no information in the Blue Book for the Mandocello. I did, however, find an expert who could probably help you. Here is the contact info:

Gryphon Stringed Instruments
211 Lambert Avenue
Palo Alto, California 94306
650.493.2131

Regarding the Mandolin--

Again, there is no listing in the Blue Book. Here is the contact info for the leading mandolin expert in this country:

Charles Johnson
American flag picture and link to Resistnet.com P.O. Box 24555
Richmond, Virginia 23224
United States of America
804-937-4880
My business phone hours are:
Monday-Friday: 7:00 pm -10:00 pm East Coast time zone USA
Weekends: 12 noon - 10:00 pm East Coast time zone USA
Toll Free: 888.493.2131

As for re fretting the instrument, I would say
NOT. A major alteration would definitely diminish the value of the instrument.

Lynne