Both the F2 and F4 mandolins were introduced in 1902. These models were constructed to nearly the same specifications. Both models produced in this year feature an asymmetrical, three-point body, pearl pick guard inlay, inlaid tuner buttons and an ebony fingerboard. The F2 features an ebony and pearl rope pattern top binding while the F4 features a green and white rope pattern top border and pearl binding. A crescent and star peghead inlay is offered on the F2 mandolin and a pearl peghead binding is offered on the F4 mandolin. The 1908 F2 is very similar to the 1908 F4. Both models offer elevated pickguards and feature wood and ivoroid (a specific type of plastic) soundhole rings. Both mandolins are available with golden orange or black finishes. The F4 made in this year has a few more features than the F2. The 1908 F4 features an ornate flowerpot peghead inlay and right angle tuners.
Gibson F4 and F2 mandolins only underwent a few general changes in the years between 1910 and 1919. Both F4 and F2 mandolins in 1910 feature a two-point body shape. Gibson offered F4 models with double flowerpot inlay designs in 1911. The F4 and F2 Gibson mandolins were produced with slightly shaded, uniform red mahogany finishes. Orange or black top finishes were an available option in this year. Models made in 1918 were produced with dark mahogany sunburst finishes and feature no inlay tuner buttons.
Most of the Gibson F4 and F2 mandolins made in the underwent the exact same changes. Truss rods were added to the 1922 F4 and F2 models. The 1922 F4 mandolin features a single flowerpot peghead inlay. Rounded neck heel, one-piece neck Gibson F4 and F2 mandolins with arrow-end tuner plates became available in 1923. Round-end tuner plates are featured on the 1926 F4 and F2 Gibson mandolins.
The Gibson F2 mandolin was discontinued in 1934. After the F2 model was discontinued, the F4 underwent several more changes before it too was discontinued. In 1935, the F4 was produced with a diamond peghead inlay, yellow/brown sunburst top and pointed-end fingerboard. Gibson's F4 series of mandolins was discontinued in 1943.