Gibson H-1 Mandola 1920, Natural

The H-1 was Gibson’s entry-level mandola during the early 20th century, offering the company’s carved construction in a simpler package than the higher-grade F-style models. This 1920 example has a Natural finish over a spruce top with maple back and sides, giving it the understated look of an early Gibson mandolin-family instrument. The body follows Gibson’s familiar teardrop outline, with a simple neck and fingerboard that keep the ornamentation to a minimum. Nearly a century old, it’s a charming example of Gibson’s early mandola production and an interesting piece of the company’s prewar stringed-instrument history.