Help to learn about this old mandolin

[slpalmer]

I am hoping you can help me. My Grandpa played the mandolin in the attached photos. It cannot be played as it has been determined to be beyond repair.
However, the family has restrung it (not tensioned), cleaned it up, and it is now in a custom display case for generations to come. We understand it probably has no monetary value, but it does have sentimental value. This is all I know: SS Stewart sticker, B&J sticker, 1920s (or so we think), A-Style? F-holes? Forgive me - I am just learning!

I am looking for information on this mandolin AND to find one as close to it as possible to purchase. Thank you so much!!

[AndyV]

There was one on ebay a few weeks ago, no label or pickguard. $50 I think. There was one on Craigslist or Facebook here a while before that. I'll see if I can find it and let you know.

[NickR]

B & J sold mandolins and guitars over the years made by a multitude of firms. I cannot identify the maker of your mandolin but it has some Strad-O-Lin features- although the headstock appears to hark back to an earlier era- the 20s and early 30s and other makers. However, your mandolin may be much later in its build- 40s or 50s, I would suggest. You have not shown the tuners and they often date an instrument assuming they are the original units. This thread below shows an oval hole mandolin with the same label- and that probably means the same era. B & J changed their labels and logos regularly- and that also helps date the instrument.It may be a Harmony made mandolin but we need to see more of its features.

https://www.mandolincafe.com/forum/t...013-SS-Stewart

[pops1]

I posted this on your other thread so I will also post it here.

I am not familiar with this particular mandolin, but anything can be repaired. It may be more expensive than the instrument is worth, but it can be repaired. If it is that sentimental it may be possible that the cost is more than the mandolin is worth, but not so high as your sentiment. Your son could actually play your grandfathers mandolin.

[AndyV]

There was one on ebay a few weeks ago, no label or pickguard. $50 I think. There was one on Craigslist or Facebook here a while before that. I'll see if I can find it and let you know.

Sorry. No luck. I know one of those listings sold.

[Jim Garber]

No need to post in more than one place. We can find you.

[MikeEdgerton]

I am hoping you can help me. My Grandpa played the mandolin in the attached photos. It cannot be played as it has been determined to be beyond repair.
However, the family has restrung it (not tensioned), cleaned it up, and it is now in a custom display case for generations to come. We understand it probably has no monetary value, but it does have sentimental value. This is all I know: SS Stewart sticker, B&J sticker, 1920s (or so we think), A-Style? F-holes? Forgive me - I am just learning!

I am looking for information on this mandolin AND to find one as close to it as possible to purchase. Thank you so much!!

It's an A style mandolin with F holes. Are there any numbers stamped inside? You might need a flashlight to see them.

[AndyV]

It cannot be played as it has been determined to be beyond repair.

What's wrong with it? It looks overall okay.