1954 Gibson A-40 Vintage A-Style Mandolin Natural, 100% Original w/ Case

Up for sale, a 1954 Gibson A-40 mandolin in excellent, 100% original condition, complete with the original hardshell case. Crafted at the Parsons Street factory in Kalamazoo, MI, this A-Style mandolin served as an entry-level staple in Gibson’s Post-War catalogue at its time of production, featuring a carved spruce top framed by ivoroid binding.

Additional tonewoods include an arched Honduran mahogany back and sides with a Honduran mahogany neck capped by a Brazilian rosewood fingerboard. Tonally, this mandolin is chiming and immediate, with a woody chop and great natural breadth when notes ring out. There’s an overall smoothness to the sound with plenty of rich sustain and projection on tap, easily holding its own in ensemble situations. This A-40 has been professionally setup here at Mike & Mike’s Guitar Bar with bronze 10-39 strings and easy-playing action.

Neck Specs:

• Wood: Honduran mahogany
• Shape: U, measuring .805” 1st fret, .905” 5th fret
• Fretboard: Brazilian rosewood, pearl dot inlays
• Frets: Slender, no wear
• Scale Length: 14”
• Nut: 1 3/16”, bone
• Tuners: Kluson “no line” strips

Body Specs:

• Wood: Carved spruce, Honduran mahogany
• Hardware: Compensated Brazilian rosewood bridge, “wavy top” tailpiece
• Plastics: Tortoise pickguard
• Serial: X-prefix Factory Order Number (1954)

The gloss Natural finish exhibits subtle vertical checking on the back, and cosmetic wear is limited to a small area of pick wear on the bass-side of the top, faint buckle scuffing central to the back, and a few minor nicks and finish scratches consistent with careful use. The gloss on the neck profile is smooth and clean.

The original hardshell case is included and equally as clean as the mandolin with the original handle, functional latches, clean green felt interior, and textured black tolex exterior.