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1968 Gibson Florentine Electric Mandolin
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Serial #: 895792
Finish: Cremona sunburst, nitrocellulose lacquer type.
Materials: Solid Honduras mahogany body and neck; solid curved rosewood fingerboard with pearl dot inlays.
Hardware: All original gold hardware includes P-90 single coil pickup, engraved Gibson tailpiece, double line nickel Kluson Deluxe tuners, bar bridge saddle with Brazilian rosewood base; black five-ply beveled pickguard; black bonnet volume and tone controls; adjustable truss rod.
Notes: Gibson's electric mandolins weren't just an afterthought: they debuted the EM-150 model in 1936, the same year as their pioneering ES-150 electric guitar. To enhance sustain and reduce feedback, Gibson introduced its solid body Florentine model in 1954, with the signature scoll peghead of their iconic F series acoustic mandolins.
Briefly renamed the EM-200 in the early 60's, the costly Florentine model was far scarcer than the EM-150, having been built in less than half the numbers of its hollow body counterpart. Its unique two point body design was echoed by Gibson in 1957 with their A-5 acoustic mandolin, made famous by mando legend Jethro Burns. Unlike the Fender, Bigsby and other solid body mandos, the Florentine is double strung like a conventional mandolin, with the same shimmering tone traditionally associated with the instrument.
This gleaming instrument is one of just 28 produced in its model year, just three years before the model was discontinued for good. In gleaming condition, the instrument has all original hardware and finish, with no pick, buckle, thumb or fingerboard wear. The carved Honduras mahogany body has attractive chevron figure and striping in the back as well. The original four pole P-90 pickup is clear and detailed, and the neck has a comfy full C profile. An older crack at the headstock has been soundly and invisibly repaired, and the fingerboard has smooth low action over fine original frets. Even the Gibson rectangular hardshell case is in wonderful condition, still bearing a nameplate from the original vendor, Zapf Music in Philadelphia, PA.
Rarely seen on the vintage market, the graceful Gibson Florentine has become a prize for players and collectors alike. One only: call now.
Case: Original Gibson rectangular black hardshell case with gold plush lining.
