Washburn mandolins follow the same type of numbering that the guitars of this era do. The first number is the style (7 and 8 for all mandolins), and the second number is the style. The first models introduced in the early 1890s include the 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, and 80. From 1892-1895, models include the 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 78, 80, 85, 89 Mandola, and 071. The higher the second number, the more ornate/elaborate the guitar's design and features are.
In 1896, the model was numbered according to the price (the last two or three digits indicate the price). This lasted until 1904 and included the 115 (previously the 071), 118, 122, 130, 140, 150, 160, 175 (previously the 80), and the 1125. A new line was introduced in 1905 but followed the same model structure. Models included the 215, 220 (1912-13), 225, 235, 250, 275, 1125 (reintroduced 1912-13), and 225 Mandola (1912-13). This line lasted until the end of WWI or circa 1915.
Flat-back mandolins were introduced in 1915, and all models used a four-digit numbering system. Flat-back models included the 1425, 1430, 1435, 2424, 2434, and 2442. Bowl-back mandolins included the 2627, 2632, 2643, 2662, and 2683. These were the last bowl-back style mandolins for Washburn and the line was phased out by the early 1920s. A Mandola model 1642 was available in the mid-1920s.
In the mid-1920s, Washburn changed their models to a lettering system. Models ranged from A to G. In the late 1920s, the models stayed the same, but the naming system change again. Washburn standardized their entire line of instruments, and the prefix 52 was used on mandolins. All mandolins start with 52 and are followed by two digits. Most model numbers have a name. For instance, Style A was introduced in 1920, and by the late 1920s, it was changed to the Deluxe No. 5283 (along with a Mandola No. 5300, and Mandocello No. 5310). The Style C changed to the Aristocrat No. 5282, the Style E changed to the 5280 Inspiration, and the STyle G changed to the 5281 Classic. Styles B, D, and F did not last long enough to go through the name change. These are the last mandolins to be produced before Washburn quit producing instruments.
There are so many different variations of Washburn mandolins, it is unrealistic to list every one individually. When evaluating Washburn mandolins keep in mind that the higher the last numbers of the model, typically the more the mandolin will be worth. The last number(s) usually indicate the grade or how much they sold for new, and that will ultimately affect the value today.