I came across your website, via Mandolin Cafe. I wanted offer some information and photos on my mandolin, for your archive. I am the owner of #97490, model F5. It is stamped 5020G, which is visible through the treble f-hole. I do not have an appropriate mirror, to enable me to view the FON. I understand that this is a 1942 F-5. It has a sunburst finish, typical of the period. The condition, I feel is good. It has no cracks, and the neck is straight. However, it does have a substantial amount of playing wear, but it does not effect the structural integrity of the instrument. The back is a beatiful example of quilted maple. Your archive states that the lower bout was over-sprayed. I would respectfully disagree with that. I can see no evidence of any overspray, anywhere on the mandolin. However, the finish on the neck was sanded, giving it a French polish. The mandolin is all original, except for the bridge, nut, and endpin. I have the original bridge, but replaced it with a Randy Wood, to fit my preference in string spacing. I also replaced the nut to suit my playing preference. When I purchased the mandolin, a pickup was installed. I still have the original endpin and nut. The pickguard is missing. All I have of it, is the mounting bracket. Also, I do not have the original case. When I received the mandolin, it had a 50s Gibson case (brown w/pink lining). The following repairs were made, since my acquisition of the mandolin: re-fret, fingerboard plane, replace nut & bridge. The man I purchased the mandolin from possessed the mandolin for approximately 15 years. I knew him very well personally. He was a vintage instrument dealer. I understood him to say that he purchased the mandolin from the original owner, who was from San Antonio, TX., although I have been unable to confirm that. Also, I wanted to let you know that I recorded with this mandolin. It can be heard on cuts 1, 5, & 12 on The Karl Shiflett & Big County Show's latest release on Rebel Records (REB-CD-1792). I've attached a few photos of the mandolin. I apologize for my poor photography skills, but at least you can get an idea, regarding the mandolin. I hope this information helps. Let me know if I can I provide any other information for you. I enjoyed visiting the archive. I look forward to hearing from you.
Best Regards,
Randy Lindley
26411 Hillside Dr.
Spring, TX 77386