Martin Style A Mandolin

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$895.00 Price Tier: High-end

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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Page last updated Jun 04, 2026

Pricing and availability

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5.0 (1)

$895.00 10 available Used

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Average Price: $895

High-end/Boutique

$100

$501+

Price Tier

In the Mandolins category, Martin Style A Mandolin is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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Standard

High-end

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Description

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Discover the artistry of the Martin Style A Mandolin, a testament to traditional craftsmanship and elegant design. This exquisite piece brings the timeless charm of folk and world music into your hands, offering a harmonious blend of history and innovation. With its A-style body, the mandolin delivers a full-bodied tone that resonates with clarity and warmth, making it an ideal companion for both intimate gatherings and larger sessions.

The flatback construction of the Martin Style A Mandolin stands out, providing a unique sound profile that is both nuanced and versatile. Its superior craftsmanship includes an oval soundhole that enhances its natural acoustics, allowing each note to sing with a distinctive voice. The rosewood sides and back not only contribute to its rich tonal quality but also add a touch of classic elegance. Whether you're a seasoned player or a passionate enthusiast, this mandolin promises to elevate your musical journey.

Key Features:

A-style body for full, resonant sound
Flatback design for nuanced character
Oval soundhole for enhanced acoustics
Rosewood sides and back for rich tonal quality

Product specs

Brand	Martin
Model	A Style Mandolin
Finish	Natural
Year	1928
Categories	Mandolins

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the Martin Style A Mandolin?: The Martin Style A Mandolin typically offers a warm, mellow tone that is well-suited for folk and traditional music styles. Its sound is characterized by a rich resonance, making it ideal for intimate settings and acoustic performances.
Is the Martin Style A Mandolin suitable for beginners?: Yes, the Martin Style A Mandolin is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable playability and straightforward design. Its A-style body is often easier for new players to handle compared to more ornate designs.
What are the distinguishing features of the Martin Style A Mandolin?: The Martin Style A Mandolin is known for its simple, pear-shaped body and natural finish. It lacks the ornamental scrolls and points found on F-style mandolins, offering a more straightforward aesthetic with a focus on tone and playability.
What materials are used in the construction of the Martin Style A Mandolin?: The Martin Style A Mandolin is typically crafted with high-quality tonewoods that contribute to its warm and resonant sound. While specific materials can vary, Martin is renowned for using select woods that enhance the instrument's tonal qualities.

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Jake Wildwood & Co

1923 Martin Style A flatback mandolin

Jake Wildwood & Co

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin Style A Mandolin.

Build quality

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Early models have an ebony nut instead of bone, indicating age and potentially higher craftsmanship.
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The mahogany back and sides combined with a deeper body are noted for providing extra richness, enhancing their suitability for various music styles.
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A signature and date may be penciled on the underside of the top, offering a unique aspect of its historical craftsmanship.
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Features and functionality

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The recessed/inlayed pick guard suggests a production date from the early 1920s.
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The Martin A-style mandolins from this period might have original tuners that can be finicky, indicating they could require special care or eventual replacement.
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Setup and maintenance

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Checking the center strip on the inside back near the neck-body joint may reveal a stamped number for identification.
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Owners recommend keeping the mandolin in a hard case when not in use and addressing any emerging cracks immediately, suggesting a proactive approach to maintenance.
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Owners report issues with body slat separation, requiring attention from a skilled luthier familiar with vintage mandolins.
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The action is nearly correct, but the 9th fret is missing, indicating specific repair needs.
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Use cases and applications

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Owners note that despite playwear, these mandolins maintain good sound quality, indicating durability and lasting tonal performance over time.
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It's recommended to avoid using vintage mandolins in risky environments like crowded pubs or outdoor gigs with extreme weather, suggesting they are better suited for controlled settings.
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It has a distinct sound, particularly suited to classical, traditional Italian, or Greek music, differing from a Gibson-style mandolin.
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Value and pricing

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A 1950 model A Martin has been valued at about one-third of a Collings MT, suggesting these mandolins are reasonably priced for vintage instruments.
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