(Used) 2003 Gibson Mastermodel A9 Spruce/Maple Mandolin #7040

The 2003 Gibson Master Model A-9 delivers the classic, woody projection that has made Gibson mandolins a staple in bluegrass circles for decades. Its A-style symmetrical body features a solid Sitka spruce top with tone-bar bracing, offering a crisp attack and balanced sustain. The solid figured maple back and sides enhance note clarity and definition, while the thin satin lacquer finish lets the wood resonate freely for a dry, punchy voice prized by traditional players.

The figured maple neck sports a comfortable rounded “V” profile paired with an ebony fingerboard, accented only by white side-dot markers for a clean, no-nonsense aesthetic. With a 1 1/16″ nut and nearly 15″ scale length, the playability is quick and precise, perfect for both melodic leads and rapid chord chops. The adjustable rosewood bridge ensures accurate intonation, and the nickel-plated tailpiece engraved with “The Gibson” adds a touch of heritage styling. Open-gear strip tuners with pearloid buttons keep tuning smooth and stable, even under stage conditions.

This model’s minimalist approach—single-ply top binding, no fingerboard inlays—puts all the focus on tone and performance. Weighing in at just under two pounds, it feels lively and responsive in hand. The original hard-shell case (often TKL) offers secure transport and storage. Built at Gibson’s facility during an era known for exceptional mandolin craftsmanship, the A-9 remains a sought-after choice for players who value traditional build, powerful projection, and pure bluegrass tone.

SPECS
Model: Gibson Master Model A-9
Year: 2003
Body Style: A-Style Mandolin, Symmetrical Body With F-Holes
Top Wood: Solid Sitka Spruce, Tone-Bar Braced
Back & Sides: Solid Figured Maple
Neck: Figured Maple, Rounded “V” Profile
Fingerboard: Ebony, White Side-Dot Position Markers
Nut Width: 1 1/16″ (≈ 27 mm)
Scale Length: 14 29/32″ (~15″)
Bridge: Adjustable Rosewood Bridge, Compensated
Tailpiece: Nickel-Plated With “The Gibson” Engraving
Tuners: Open-Gear Strip Tuners With Pearloid Buttons
Binding: Single-Ply Top Binding (Typically Black)
Finish: Thin Satin Lacquer (Vintage Brown Or Sunburst)
Inlays: Minimal — Side Dots Only, No Fingerboard Inlays
Label: Paper Label Inside Body With Serial Number
Case: Original Hard-Shell Case (Often TKL)
Weight: ~1 Lb 13 Oz (≈ 840 g)
Made In: Gibson Facility, Likely Nashville Or Kalamazoo Depending On Batch
Condition: Good With Pick Wear Near F-Hole

Notice: This is a used item. While we do a basic cleaning and setup before shipping, we are unable to make any modifications to, or guarantees of condition, and or history, outside of what we have personally found, or been informed of by the previous owner, which is included in the description.


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