Gibson

Gibson J-45 (1953)

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Pickup currently unavailable at 165 Showroom

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Product information

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').

Materials
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)

Neck Specs
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

Other
Serial #
Y6894 27 (FON)
Case
Original chipboard