J.V. Johnston, 3 point F style mandolin, hand made in 1985 by "Ole Man J.V. Johnston" in Mabank Texas, USA. J.V.Johnston was well known in Texas and surrounding areas as a great mandolin builder and repairman. In the '70s and '80s he revoiced many Gibson mandolins to give them "punch" and enhance the "tone" required for Bluegrass music. I have seen several of his revoiced Gibson's through the years, and can find reference to these online at Mandolin Cafe. The (JK) letters are luggage stickers and can be easily removed. This mandolin is #42 dated 3/15/85. The back, sides and neck are figured walnut, the top is tight grain spruce, the fingerboard is ebony and the headstock cap is rosewood. Headstock inlays are hand cut by J.V. and position markers are slotted diamonds. 30 years ago, J.V. sold his A style mandolins for $1200. with case, and F style mandolins for $1500. with case.
J.V. Johnston #42 will be shipped in the original hardshell case, USPS and insured. USA only
