
Gibson J-45 "Rosie" (1951)
Vintage
This is a J-45 that's been loved.
We love this because, simply put, it's a guitar that's been loved. We acquired this 1951 J-45 from the estate of a local client who loved music. There were many instruments left to be sorted through when he passed away, but "Rosie" was the clear heirloom. This guitar has been a gigging instrument all its life (that decal was meant to attract eyeballs on stage, as if there was any doubt). Its original endpin has been replaced with a metal one; and the original tuner buttons have been replaced as well (they likely crumbled long ago). The internal components, including all bracing and the bridge plate, are original and in great shape.But the thousands of hours the guitar's previous owner logged with her have left an indelible mark on her voice. Rosie has the kind of sound anyone looking for a lifetime J-45 would want. This is a lightweight, responsive J-45, with a dry, woody, clarity, and beautiful low-end thump perfect for rhythm guitar playing with a flatpick. Single notes high up the fingerboard leap out of the guitar with a rewarding punch as well. We sincerely hope someone in search of their grail-level J-45 snaps this guitar up quickly, since it receives our highest marks for sound, looks, and playability. Priced with a modern hardshell case.
** Please note that expedited shipping is required during online checkout. Contact us for Ground options.
| Top | Spruce |
| Back & Sides | Mahogany |
| Neck | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard | Rosewood |
| Bridge | Rosewood |
| Nut & Saddle | Bone |
| Tuners | Original Kluson w/Replaced buttons |
| Construction | Hide Glue |
| Finish | Original Lacquer |
| Carve | Vintage 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 in MOP |
| Serial # | 7860-34 |
| Case | Modern Hardshell |
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.
