The Roberts Tiny Moore 5-string electric mandolin was inspired by Tiny's 1952 Paul Bigsby instrument. These were built during the 1970s and ’80s by Jay Roberts of Yuba City, California, and sold by Tiny at his Sacramento shop, Tiny Moore Music.
     This Roberts, in the familiar warm orange sunburst, is in very good condition, with its original rectangular hardshell case. It is only the second left-handed Roberts I have come across. I know I'm preaching to a small choir here, but the right player has to be out there somewhere, and this is that player's golden opportunity. Along with the mandolin is some fascinating case candy, including a letter from Tiny, the original receipt, and the rare electric mandolin issue of Mandolin World News.
     The custom pickups have several switching options, and deliver an unbelievably warm tone, perfect for jazz, swing, country, Brazilian and many other types of music. The instrument is in good shape but does have some finish crazing, as shown in the photos.
     Only a few hundred Roberts instruments exist, and they rarely change hands. I see them for sale perhaps twice a year. This may be the only opportunity in your lifetime to acquire a left-handed one. See more photos, call 425/772-0231, or for more information. $3,000 plus shipping.