Help Identifying Gibson Mandolin

[Paciano]

Hello, this mandolin has been in my family for a long time but it's been sitting in it's case for the last 45 years or more and I'd like to know more about it. The label appears to have fallen off so there is only hand written numbers on the inside. The only other identifiers are the patten numbers. I'm attaching photos. Hoping to know what year it might be, what it could be worth etc. so someone can start enjoying it. Thanks in advance!

[Bazz Jass]

Nice! It's a 1921 Gibson model A in Sheraton Brown with original hard case.

Very well preserved! With original bridge, pickguard and tuners.

Here's the 1921 catalog page featuring this model:



Possible the label is inside the mandolin still? I.e. became unattached and ended up inside somewhere?

[mrmando]

Yep, those aluminum bridge saddles were used for only about a year starting in 1921. They are a rare find, especially with both of the retaining nuts still present.

This instrument and its original hardshell case appear to be in pretty good shape and, barring any needed repairs, would probably sell for $900 to $1,000.

[Timbofood]

Pretty cool piece!
Learn to play it!

[Denny Gies]

The expertise in the Cafe continues to impress the heck out of me.