1920 GIBSON A-3 « IVORY-TOP » MANDOLIN

A stunning 1920 Gibson A3 “Ivory-Top” mandolin, in very good condition.

In 1918, Gibson introduced a whole new design for their A3 model, giving it a white top finish which they referred to as “beautiful old ivory” (sic). This set the A3 mandolin apart from the other models and their typical natural, sunburst, “pumpkin” or black finish. To match this new finish, the “Ivory-Top” A3 was also given a double ivoroid-ebonoid binding around the top, ivoroid binding around the back and neck, as well as a white colored pickguard whose cellulose material was meant to imitate the grain of ivory. For the rest, the characteristics are identical to the pre-1918 A3: back and sides made from solid maple, “The Gibson” pearl inlay and floral design on the headstock, tailpiece cover engraved with “The Gibson” logo.

This century-old instrument is in great restored condition, and has had a complete setup to guarantee playing comfort and just intonation.

In non-original hardcase.