Mandolin orchestras were all the rage in the early 1900's so Lyon & Healy, already a manufacturer of violin family instruments, released a series of mandolin family instruments in 1917 to serve this demand. There were 3 models of mandolins: The Style A, B, and C with the Style A being the most expensive "professional" model. These were very finely crafted, carved top, instruments that excelled at classical and traditional music. 

This is an exceptionally clean example of an early Style A mandolin. It has a beautiful art deco design with a delicately carved scroll headstock and symmetrical points on the body. It even comes complete with the top of the line,  original deluxe Geib case with green silk lining. These early examples were also long scale (13 3/4") which give them great projection compared to later short scale 13" models. The top is very nice straight grained red spruce. The back and sides are perfectly flamed maple. The engraved tailpiece on its own is a work of art. The bridge has been properly fitted to the top and the frets have been crowned so it plays perfectly with low action. It is set up with Thomastik flat wound strings which bring out the smooth, sweet qualities of the tone. Overall, this is a museum worthy example of a classic Lyon & Healy mandolin.