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1930 National Triolian, Polychrome Finish

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Serial #: 1005 P, stamped in peghead. Scale length: 25" Nut width: 1 3/4" Neck depth, 1st/10th frets: .84/.98

Materials: Sheet steel body; solid one-piece basswood neck; lacquered maple fingerboard and bridge; polished bone nut; pearl dot fingerboard inlays.

Hardware: Original hardware includes engraved nickel 3-on-a-plate tuners; ribbed steel perforated coverplate; nickel stamped tailpiece; 10" spun aluminum cone.

Notes: Introduced in 1928, the National Triolian model was originally named for the tri-cone resonators of the earliest prototypes, a design that was abandoned in favor of a single large cone when the model went into production. A 12 fret wood bodied guitar with a conventional (Spanish) neck, the Triolian was converted the following year to a steel bodied instrument, and offered in a walnut sunburst or polychrome finish, the latter decorated with either stenciled floral or Hawaiian scene. This most popular version of the Triolian model was produced until 1934, when it was redesigned with a 14 fret neck, and finally withdrawn from production in 1941.

Well maintained over many decades, this fine early example is illuminated with the iconic 'palm tree' scene, stenciled on the back in black, with a setting orange sun. The rolled steel body is without cracks or dents, and shows all original hardware and lustrous golden polychrome finish with blue-green highlights. Some typical wear is visible on the body edges, with a patch of pick wear on the coverplate, along with a few scattered nicks. The neck shows little in the way of thumbwear, just a small worn patch likely from a guitar stand, with original frets in fine condition.

The voice of this instrument is simply thunderous: with massive volume and a cavernous natural reverb, the lively spiral cone rings like a cathedral bell. In either standard or open tunings, the guitar is a powerhouse of clarity and projection. Action is set to accommodate either slide or fingerstyle play, with a comfy gentle C profile neck.

Complete with its original faux alligator fiber case in excellent condition, this Depression Era classic combines the vision of a Maui sunset, with the sound of the Mississippi Delta. One only: call now.

Setup: String slots at nut and bridge inspected and recut as required; fingerboard oiled; body and neck cleaned and hand polished.

This instrument is strung with medium gauge phosphor bronze strings. The guitar will accommodate lighter or heavier gauge strings, according to preference. String action is set at 5/64" to 6/64" at the 12th fret, with moderate relief for acoustic playing with medium strings. The action may be lowered or raised to your requirements with the adjustable bridge.

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