On November 4th 1913, a patent was issued to David Day, then an acoustical engineer for the Vega Co, for a mandolin featuring a cylindrical "bump" on its back. Today we know "Cylinder Backs" as powerful mandolins, producing punchy/precise tones combined with dynamic ranges and tonal possibilities compared to the finest Gibsons. This particular example features highly figured maple back/sides, a high grade spruce top, and a straight mahogany neck with slight "V" profile. Very little fretwear. Fingerboard, back/top, are bound, abalone rosette, inlaid pearl fret markers, and inlaid pickguard with floral pearl embellishments. All original hardwear including engraved tailpiece, geared tuners with decorative back plate and VEGA star plate on peghead. Bridge has been replaced. Dark, reversed burst top, and yellowed burst on back...mandolin has been oversprayed. This mando sounds and plays exceptionally well, and is one of the better examples we have seen. Included in the sale is a newer hard case.