Gibson Mandolins - Models
All text and pictures courtesy of Gibson

A-5
The A-5 is modeled after a one-of-a-kind instrument made by Lloyd Loar,
the Gibson acoustic engineer who designed the F-5.
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A-9
Gibson's Original Acoustic Instruments division brings the concept of
the most affordable hand-crafted mandolin to its line of A-style mandolins
with the new A-9 model.
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Distressed F-5 Master Model
Gibson F-5s from 1922-24 were designed, built,
hand-tuned and signed by acoustic engineer Lloyd Loar and are considered
to be the finest
mandolins ever made. The new Distressed F-5 Master Model has an aged
finish, complete with finish checks and playing wear, that makes it
virtually indistinguishable from an original.
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Doyle Lawson Signature Model
Gibson mandolins have long been the choice of discerning players and
artists. We are proud to announce the addition of another groundbreaking
mandolin to our long line of artist endorsed instruments. The Doyle
Lawson model mandolin is a product of collaboration between another
contemporary master musician and our elite luthiers. The unique headstock
inlay, custom fingerboard and subtle 'burst finish make this instrument
distinctive and unique.
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F-5 Master Model
A beautiful instrument; full, resonant, well-balanced tone; great carrying
power. The F-5 Master Model embodies the utmost skill, craftsmanship,
and technical knowledge of the world's greatest mandolin makers. Finished
with an ultra-thin, hand-brushed varnish and hand-applied French polish,
the Gibson F-5 Master Model is the ultimate in sound and beauty.
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F-5G
The F-5G offers the discriminating mandolinist all the quality of an
F-5L -- top-grade materials, classic design and impeccable craftsmanship
-- with less ornamentation for a more affordable price.
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F5-Goldrush
Gibson’s new F5-Goldrush features a beautiful golden amber finish
on a AAA flamed maple back, sides, and neck, and spruce top. Trimmed
with a detailed black-and-white binding that gracefully adorns the body
and follows the length of the fingerboard, the stunning appearance of
the Goldrush is matched only by its incredible tone. Tap-tuned for unparalleled
response, with a brilliant and singing chop, the handcrafted Goldrush
is bold enough to be heard over larger instruments and sweet enough to
stand alone. The latest in the long line of classics from Gibson, the
inventors of the F-style mandolin.
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F-5L "The Fern"
The F-5L, introduced in 1978, marked the beginning of a return to the
specifications of Lloyd Loar's original F-5 Master Model mandolins
of 1922-24. Today's F-5 sets the standard by which all other mandolins
are judged.
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F-9
The F-9's no-frills design gives it a sleek look that is unique among
traditional mandolins, with black binding on the top of the body, no
fingerboard inlay and a satin Vintage Brown finish. The F-9 has all
the design features that give the F-5 its legendary tone, including
a hand-fitted dovetail neck joint, solid maple neck, sides and back,
solid spruce top, and a hand-tuned tone chamber.
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Ricky Skaggs Limited Edition Distressed Master Model
Gibson Originals
is proud to present the Ricky Skaggs Limited Edition Distressed Master
Model mandolin. The result of over a year of close
development with the legendary musician, this signature model mandolin
is closely based on Ricky’s 1923 Lloyd Loar F-5—an instrument
revered for its tone and playability. The light Cremona Sunburst finish
gracefully accents the premium, red spruce top and maple back and sides.
With a tap-tuned top for crisp chops and articulate lines, exquisite
binding and headstock inlay, and a comfortable “speedneck” profile—an
exact replica of Ricky’s F-5—the Ricky Skaggs Distressed
Master Model represents the finest in quality and craftsmanship.
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Sam Bush Signature Model
Gibson mandolins have long been the choice of discerning players and
artists. We are proud to announce the addition of another groundbreaking
mandolin to our long line of artist endorsed instruments. The Sam Bush
model mandolin is Gibson's latest mandolin development.
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