Description
Gibson J-55 1941 very rare slope shoulder dreadnought with sunburst finish spruce top, mahogany back & sides and bound fingerboard.
Only 311 guitars of this model where built between 1939 and 1943. Rare and historically significant is this guitar. The Jumbo model was Gibson’s very first dreadnought in 1934. This model was then replaced by the J-35 and the J-55, which was the most expensive Gibson dreadnought model at the time.
The Gibson dreadnought body had upper bouts that were more rounded than Martin’s, giving rise to the distinguishing terms that are still used today: “round-shouldered” or “slope-shouldered” for Gibsons and “square-shouldered” for Martins.
This guitar has to be one of the finest examples of the model in existance. It has only a few repaired cracks on the back and sides and small finish touch ups on the top, where previously a pickup was installed and 4 tiny wholes where filled.
We have sold very rare Gibsons in the past, but this J-55 we believe is the rarest Gibson we’ve ever offered for sale.
It has had a neck reset and plays fantastically. Truly a remarkable instrument that is worthy of any collection. A fine Adirondack red spruce top, paired with high quality mahogany for back/sides and the finest appointments of the time, makes this guitar a players and collectors dream.
This is a drop dead gorgeous guitar. If you want a vintage flat top that none of your friends have- this is the one to buy! The tone is gigantic and very musical. If you have an idea of what the perfect Gibson flat top would sound like- this one probably matches up. Balanced, loud, with a ton of sustain.
It comes with a newer case.