1923 Gibson A-4 Snakehead Mandolin Used

We haven’t had an A-4 snakehead from the prime Lloyd Loar years in ages, and this is probably the most original example of them all (the dark onyx tuner buttons are especially nice). While it has moderate surface wear, there are no cracks and no sign of any repairs. Starting from the top, the tuners, truss rod cover, nut, frets, patent-stamped pickguard and bridge, and tailpiece with cover are original. Even the endpin is original, with no sign of touch-up or overspray to the original shellac-varnish finish either. All that’s missing is the original case, but we found a good TKL that’s an excellent fit.