From: dadgad@sover.net   
      
   I've got an A3 FS.   
      
   Gibson A3 Mandolin: The label is obliterated so I can't tell the   
   serial number but these instruments were not made after 1923. This   
   particular mandolin has some problems. There are four potential cracks   
   on the e string side, not opened but should be looked at. The top was   
   probably not originally white and has been redone white. Some of the   
   binding is not original. It could use refretting. The tuners and   
   string holder are not original. The original pick guard will be   
   included. The case is not original. The tuners could, in a full   
   restoration, be reinstalled.   
   While this A3 is not pristine, it sounds great, with a clear and warm   
   and woody tone, and it is very playable in its present condition. I   
   play Irish music on it and it records beautifully. So why sell it?   I   
   have bought a newer Rigel and can't afford two mandolins.   I will   
   part with this wonderful A3 mandolin for $1000, which is way below   
   value, even in its present condition.   
      
      
   Art   
      
   --- SoupGate-Win32 v1.05   
    * Origin: you cannot sedate... all the things you hate (1:229/2)