Gibson rolled out the A-00 in 1933 as the mandolin equivalent of the budget-conscious L-00, which of course became one of the legendary prewar Gibson guitars. The early A-00 had an oval soundhole, but the model evolved in the '30s to have traditional f-holes, an arched top, and an arched back like most Gibson mandolins. Nevertheless, the A-00 retained a unique shape and dimensions that set it apart from the rest of the Gibson lineup.
This A-00 is stamped with Factory Order Number "235 F," which dates to 1940. I's A-style body measures 11-1/4" across, and with a 12-fret neck that rests flat on the top, the curves are more dramatic than other Gibson mandolins. This one has a carved Spruce top and gorgeous Maple back and sides. It includes its original pickguard and tuning machines, but the tailpiece is a replacement and the cover doesn't have the "The Gibson" etching.
This 1940 A-00 is a great player, and past repairs have greatly improved upon the original prewar design. In particular, the neck has been reset, and the fingerboard was radius-ed and refretted. It has also has an aftermarket bone nut. When it came to us, this A-00 set up with a pre-'20s non-adjustable Gibson bridge. But we set it up with a proper adjustable Ebony bridge. Because of that, this mandolin plays beautifully, more like a modern mandolin. But because of the authentic age and prewar design, it produces a warm, rounded old-time sound you'll never get from something made after 1942.
On the bass side of the top, there is a cosmetic repair over some pick wear (see photos). We suspect that at least the back, neck, and headstock were oversarpayed at that time as well. There are a few spots where the body binding has been reglued, and there are three small filled screw holes on the edges of the peghead that may have been from some old strap or hanger. Hard to say!
In your hands, this Gibson A-00 captures the authentic character and vibe of a prewar Depression-Era mandolin. But because of the improvements—and especially the radius fingerboard—it plays so nicely. With a properly seated bridge, its tone is optimized—warm and throaty, perfect for folk or old-time, but not lacking in chop and punch. This 1940 Gibson A-00 includes a hardshell case.