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About Jim Garber
Expertise

I can answer most questions on fretted instruments, my main area of expertise is in vintage mandolins, guitars and ukuleles. I also know some things about old banjos as well.

Many questioners ask about the market value of their instrument without much information. Please give me as much information as possible including the condition of the instrument. It also truly helps if you can includes a clear photo of your instrument. I think the site will only allow for one photo, but you can email me additional ones to jimg@paperclipdesign.com. I will try to evaluate but sometimes it is very difficult without the instrument in hand

PLEASE NOTE: I will not be able to answer any questions about antique keyboards, accordions, concertinas, woodwinds, brass and percussion.



Experience
I have been buying, selling, collecting and playing old and antique instruments for over 30 years. My recent specialty has been in European mandolins and classical and Italian mandolin music.

Organizations
Classical Mandolin Society of America, active participant on the Mandolin Cafe

Publications
Guild of American Luthiers, Sing Out Magazine,

Education/Credentials
BA, Brandeis University

 
   

You are here:  Experts > Music/Performing Arts > Musical Instruments > Antique Musical Instruments > mandolin brand?

Antique Musical Instruments - mandolin brand?


Expert: Jim Garber - 7/20/2008

Question
I have a mandolin that had the sticker "The Genuine Washington" on the inside - the sticker didn't appear to be original - but it is a great sounding mandolin - i don't want an appraisal - just wondering if you've seen one like it . . . i have pix . . .

Answer
Hi Kim:
After receiving your photos... I can say with close to certainty that this was manufactured by one of the larger Chicago musical instrument factories aroundt eh 1920s-early 1930s, most likely Regal or Harmony. I have seen similar ones made under the Supertone brand for Sears.

Yours looks like it has some warpage on the top which m ay affect the playability.

Best
Jim

Hi Kim:
The only Washington brand I have record for is one sold by the J. W. Jenkins Co, a music retailer in Kansas City.

Yes, I would love to see pics. Please send to: jimg@paperclipdesign.com

Jim  

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