This site is dedicated to collecting information about specific models of vintage Ibanez mandolins from two different time periods: 1) The “Copy Period” from about 1975 to 1978, and 2) The “Original Period” from 1981 to 1983. Much of the information comes from reader submissions of photographs, stories, and instrument serial numbers. Since opening the site in Summer 2008, we have added a large number of instruments and pictures to the serial number database. Our goal is to continue collecting pictures and serial numbers to try to establish patterns and production totals.

Other priorities for the site include expanding the model information pages with more details for each model, and continuing to publish original articles with detailed information on Ibanez mandolins.

The main models of interest are from the 52X series. For example 524, 525, and 526. These mandolins are made from carved solid tops and backs, and solid sides. The 51X series, like the 513 model, are lower grade and made from laminated woods.

• F-Style Ibanez Mandolin Models
  • Ibanez 523 – block inlay F-5 (Sam Bush “Hoss” style)
  • Ibanez 524 – the most common of the F-5 style
  • Ibanez 525 – oval hole F-4 style
  • Ibanez 526 – Gibson Fern style mandolin
  • Ibanez 527 – top of the line
  • Ibanez 528 – jazz artist style mandolin
  • Ibanez 529 – fancy jazz artist style mandolin
• A-Style Ibanez Mandolin Models
  • Ibanez 521 – copy of Gibson A style
  • Ibanez 522 – copy of Gibson A-5

There are many other Ibanez mandolin models and variations, however these are somewhat lower in quality and not considered as collectable as the models listed above. For now we will concentrate on the models which are the higher quality examples of the range.