Gibson Gold Sparkle L-2 Argentine Grey (1931)
Vintage
Amongst the rarest Gibson flattop guitars ever made are the early 1930's L-2 models featuring the beautiful "Argentine Grey" finish and gold sparkle purfling. These amazingly lightweight 12-fretters are great guitars for players with a delicate touch: their thin tops respond immediately, producing an effortlessly warm & rounded tone (the lightness of build almost informs the playing style here).
It's worth noting that Gibsons from this period were typically built on the extremely light and thin side and most exhibit top bellying that is beyond what we would consider normal. The fact that many of these guitars are still around and playable is a wonder, to be sure. This L2 shows these characteristics: top belly and slight "cupping" to the front of the bridge. The bridge plate has been replaced with a medium sized maple plate. A pro neck reset was performed within the last several years (perhaps through Umanov Guitars in NYC). The bridge has been replaced, the guitar has been refretted, and modern Waverly Tuners have been installed (the original bridge and planetary style tuners are with the guitar). Several top cracks have been repaired, and have been stable for quite some time. Overall, this is a lovely looking, lovely sounding, and highly collectible guitar. Priced with its original hard case and contemporary hard case as well.
- Mahogany back & sides
- Spruce top
- Brazilian Rosewood fingerboard & bridge (bridge is a replica)
- 1 3/4" Nut width, rounded neck carve
- 2 3/8" String spacing
- New frets, new Waverly tuners
- Original bridge & tuners included
- Original hard case included
Every instrument is thoroughly checked and set up before shipping fully insured via UPS with tracking to your door. We reuse boxes and materials to cut waste when they meet our protection standard.
Inspect it, play it, and if it isn't right, contact us within 48 hours of delivery to arrange a return or one-time exchange. Returns are subject to a 5% restocking fee, and the buyer covers shipping both ways.
Pricing
We price vintage instruments using current market trends and our extensive in-house sales history, ensuring each piece is accurately valued and fairly positioned.
Tasteful Restoration
When restoration is needed, we approach it with respect and restraint - always in service of preserving the instrument’s integrity and extending its musical life for decades to come.
Accurate Listings
Every vintage guitar we list is authenticated by our seasoned team and photographed in high detail, with clear, honest descriptions that show exactly what you’re buying - no surprises.
Shipping
With decades of experience shipping high-value guitars, we know how to pack and protect vintage instruments so they arrive exactly as they should: safe, sound, and ready to play.