1984 Kentucky DAWG Mandolin - #39 of 48


1984 Kentucky DAWG Mandolin - #39 of 48

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1984 Kentucky DAWG Mandolin - #39 of 48 :
$3050.00


In the early 1980s, the Saga Instrument Company worked with John Montleone and David Grisman to produce a very limited number of detailed copies of Grisman\'s Montleone \"Grand Artist\" mandolin. The result was the Kentucky \"DAWG\". The carving templates and construction details were provided by John Montleone and executed with fine precision and artistry at the Maruko, Japan facility. Principle carving was done by the famed luthier Sumi who eventually became the owner of the Maruko shop.This mandolin is #39 of the 48 total DAWG/KM-2000 mandolins ever built and was labelled as completed in 1984.Currently strung with flat-wound strings, this is an amazing sounding mandolin with as close as you\'re going to get to the infamous Montleone tone and playability for less than $20,000!Kentucky DAWG #39 has clearly had a busy life. I\'ve included lots of pictures so that you have a good idea of the condition of the instrument. There are, of course, mic dings and evidence of repairs including -- a crack along the grain of the top below the lower F-hole towards the bottom point which has been internally cleated and appears to now be stable, a worn but very fast \"speed-necked\" neck with a newer replacement flat fingerboard which features medium silver frets and a new bridge which is tightly fitted to top. Action is extremely low and comfortable with the current set-up.The tuners are, I believe, original and are very easy turning but probably looser feeling than they were when new. The Montleone-designed tailpiece is also quite worn, but appears to be original.I am including an original 3-fold sales pamphlet created by Saga to promote the Kentucky mandolin line which features a great picture of David Grisman holding two of the early DAWG mandolins. Specs for all Kentucky model mandolins being made at the time are included on a table at the back of the pamphlet.Although, much of the 29 year history of this mandolin is shrouded in mystery, feel free to ask any questions which might come to mind. I hope you grab this rare gem while you have the chance!Shipping rate is for CONUS. Sales tax will be added for CA buyers.

1984 Kentucky DAWG Mandolin - #39 of 48 :
$3050.00

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