1985 Flatiron 3MW Army/Navy Mandolin – Bozeman, MT – Pre-Gibson – Original Case

1985 Flatiron 3MW "Army/Navy" Mandolin – Bozeman, Montana – Excellent Original Condition

For sale is a beautiful 1985 Flatiron 3MW "Army/Navy" (flat-body/pancake) mandolin, handcrafted in Bozeman, Montana during Flatiron's highly regarded pre-Gibson years. Instruments from this period have earned an outstanding reputation for their exceptional craftsmanship, quality tonewoods, and mature, balanced sound. Clean, original Montana-built examples are becoming increasingly difficult to find.

The 3MW is an upscale model featuring striking AAA figured curly maple back and sides paired with a tight-grained spruce top. The herringbone body binding adds a classic touch to its appearance. Tonally, this mandolin delivers a warm, woody voice with excellent note definition, strong projection, and clear articulation across the entire fingerboard. It's equally well suited for bluegrass, old-time music, folk, acoustic ensembles, or studio recording.

This is a fine example of a pre-Gibson Flatiron that has been well cared for over the years. It has an excellent setup, plays effortlessly, and would make a wonderful instrument for both players and collectors.

Specifications

• Model: Flatiron 3MW ("Army/Navy" Flat Body)
• Year: 1985
• Serial Number: 8511360
• Handmade in Bozeman, Montana
• AAA figured curly maple back and sides
• Tight-grain spruce top
• Herringbone body binding
• Original gloss finish
• Original hard-shell case included

Condition

• Excellent vintage condition
• No cracks, repairs, or structural issues
• Original finish with only light, honest signs of age
• Original tuners
• Straight neck
• Frets show very little wear
• Professionally set up and ready to play
• A clean, well-preserved, all-original example

Highlights

• Desirable pre-Gibson Bozeman production
• Premium AAA curly maple and spruce tonewoods
• Attractive herringbone trim package
• Original finish and hardware
• Includes the original hard-shell case
• Outstanding tone and playability

Many Flatiron mandolins from this era have seen decades of heavy use and often show significant wear or repairs. This one has remained remarkably clean and original, making it an increasingly hard-to-find example of a sought-after Montana-built Flatiron.

$1,395