Vintage Oriole parlor acoustic guitar, dating to approximately the 1920s. This is a small-bodied pre-war parlor guitar with a 24" scale, 1.83" nut width, soft V neck profile, slotted headstock and period-style geared tuners.

A recently sold Oriole from the 1920s was identified as a Chicago-made Harmony/Regal/Kay/Lyon & Healy-type instrument, with a ladder-braced body, soft V neck and similar overall construction. The exact factory behind this example is difficult to prove from the remaining label, so I would list it simply as an Oriole rather than assigning a definite manufacturer.

This guitar is being sold strictly as a restoration project and is not currently playable.

Condition issues include:

  • Multiple significant top cracks
  • Top is noticeably wavy/deformed
  • Bridge is lifting
  • Gap present between the neck heel and body
  • One tuner button is missing
  • Significant finish wear, scratches and discoloration throughout
  • Heavy oxidation and aging to the hardware
  • Fingerboard and frets show substantial age and grime
  • Interior paper label is only partially present/readable

The construction and dimensions are very much in line with American parlor guitars of this period. Similar 1920s examples often used ladder bracing, slotted headstocks, narrow bodies and pronounced V-shaped necks.

Specs measured from this guitar:

  • 24" scale length
  • 1.83" nut width
  • 2 lbs 13 oz
  • Total Length: 36.5"
  • Lower Bout: 12.75"
  • Upper Bout: 9"
  • Parlor-size body
  • Bound body
  • 12-fret neck joint
  • Slotted headstock
  • Soft V neck profile

Sold as-is for restoration or parts. Expect this guitar to need substantial structural work before being returned to playable condition.


Bin - V1

This item is sold As-Described

This item is sold As-Described and cannot be returned unless it arrives in a condition different from how it was described or photographed. Items must be returned in original, as-shipped condition with all original packaging.Learn More.

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Listeda month ago
ConditionNon Functioning (Used)
Non-functioning items do not work as they should. All known issues should be described in the listing description.Learn more
Brand
  • Oriole
Model
  • Parlor Acoustic
Categories
Year
  • 1920s
Made In
  • United States
Body Shape
  • Parlor

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Copper Chord Music

Huntington, IN, United States
Joined Reverb:2014

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