Gibson J-45 (1953)
Vintage
While it's been played (as evidenced by the errant pick scratches seen here and there on the top), this J-45 is shockingly clean, with an unfaded sunburst finish and surfaces that shine almost like they did when they were brand new.
Can this 1953 Gibson J-45 be that clean? It can, and it is. Recently unearthed just north of us in New Hampshire, this guitar came from the original owner's family, through a friend of the shop. While it's been played (as evidenced by the errant pick scratches seen here and there on the top), this J-45 is shockingly clean, with an unfaded sunburst finish and surfaces that shine almost like they did when they were brand new. The tuner buttons and saddle were recently replaced; and some braces were reglued (making it no different than any other J-45, we suppose). But aside from the amazing condition ... let's talk sound. This is as impressive as 1950's J-45s get! It's particularly lightweight and responsive, with more low end growl than you'd imagine and a good amount of jangle in its voice. The hollow, woody sound that has made a J-45 THE staple of the singer-songwriter set is on gorgeous display here -- and we think anyone waiting for a special J-45 would be beautifully served by this one. There isn't much more to say about the condition than what's been alluded to in the previous paragraph. Aside from the reglued braces, replaced tuner buttons, and replaced saddle -- there's not much to say. The only other item worth mentioning is a small cleat installed underneath a superficial pickguard crack. Now, about the case. It's original. And super cool. And chipboard. Which makes it, well, borderline useless in a protective capacity. A significant portion of the piping on the top has come loose; and we would certainly recommend something sturdier in the name of transporting and storing this gem of a guitar securely. Interested parties may contact us for an in-hand description, potential case options, and Ground shipping options (shipping at online checkout is 'Expedited Only').| Top | Spruce |
| Back & Sides | Mahogany |
| Neck | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard | Rosewood |
| Bridge | Rosewood |
| Nut & Saddle | Bone |
| Tuners | Original Kluson (Replaced buttons) |
| Bracing | Scalloped |
| Construction | Hide Glue |
| Finish | Gloss Nitrocellulose Lacquer (Original) |
| Carve | Medium C |
| Nut Width | 1 11/16" |
| String Spacing | 2 1/8" |
| Scale Length | 24 7/8" |
| Truss Rod | Adjustable |
| Inlays | MOP Dots |
| Headstock | Gibson logo |
| Serial # | Y6894 27 (FON) |
| Case | Original chipboard |
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.