FRETS.COM Museum

FRETS.COM Museum

An elegant 1902
Martin Style 4 Mandolin
© Frank Ford, 1999; Photos by FF

There's no shortage of elaborate old bowl back mandolins. So many were made that there are lots of them surviving today in literally mint condition. I thought I'd show you a Martin mandolin, partly as a reminder that at one time Martin took mandolins seriously, offering a fine line of traditional instruments. This one is a medium-fancy one, a style #4. The fanciest ones were #7, and really had a lot of decoration.

Please click the small image

Check out the stamping on the back of the peghead below. Just the word "MARTIN" in all caps - not at all like the stamping used on the guitars or later mandolins.

Also, notice the grafted, veneered peghead. A swell detail of craftsmanship, another characteristic Martin touch.

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	Check out the stamping on the back of the peghead below. Just the word "MARTIN" in all caps - not at all like the stamping used on the guitars or later mandolins.	Also, notice the grafted, veneered peghead. A swell detail of craftsmanship, another characteristic Martin touch.