Couple of fb marketplace finds

[jim simpson]

Here are 2 fb marketplace (local) finds. They were sold as projects included with a tenor banjo. Both had severe cracks, loose braces, etc. They are now in a playable state, lowly and humble as they are. I like the graphic on the flat top, the arch top has the Strad-like segmented f-holes. Any ideas on make or brand?

[NickR]

The flat top is a Supertone made by Harmony- in 1933 or 1934. The archtop on the left is probably a Stradolin or made by the company that made them and sold by a third party. Some of those Stradolins look similar to the Harmony Montertey mandolins but I think the f holes suggest Stradolin.

Here is the tenor guitar version of your mandolin. There is a six string on Bay right now although the seller maintains it is a Regal instrument despite it showing its Harmony date stamp inside!

https://www.worthpoint.com/worthoped...enor-249626671

[jim simpson]

Thank you Nick! I like the way the Supertone tenor guitar version looks.

[NickR]

Looking at the other mandolin, again, the straight cut of the board rules it out as a Harmony Monterey derivative- it must be something from the Stradolin makers. The tuner type might help date it. I assume you replaced the bridge?

[jim simpson]

Hey Nick, yes, the bridge was replaced by something I had laying around as the original was missing. Here are shots of the tuners from each one.

[NickR]

Jim, both mandolins have Waverly oblong plank tuners from the 1930s. We know the date of the Supertone and I would suggest the "Stradolin" is late 1930s to very early 1940s although it might possibly be mid-30s.