Gibson L-5C Model Arch Top Acoustic Guitar (1964), made in Kalamazoo, Michigan, serial # 67215, sunburst lacquer finish, maple back and sides, spruce top; laminated maple neck with ebony fingerboard, original black hard shell case.

This is a superbly well-preserved 60+ year old L-5C, an instrument that represents the epitome of Gibson's carved-top heritage. By the early 1960s these full-body, acoustic arch top guitars were being made only in very limited numbers; all of 23 sunburst L-5C models left the factory in 1964. The 1964 list price was a whopping $705, plus $67.50 for the "Faultless" yellow-lined black case. This guitar has the addition of a period top-of-the-line gold-plated DeArmond Model 1100 pickup with tone and volume controls mounted through the pickguard, with no other alterations to the instrument itself.

This headstock carries a "Custom" truss rod cover, although the guitar does not appear to have any non-stock features we can see. The beautifully tight grained spruce top and flame maple back are hand-carved as they had been since the early 1900s. The traditional multiple W/B/W celluloid bindings are on every edge, and the headstock bears the L-5 "flowerpot" inlay that has always marked this model. The adjustable rosewood bridge, engraved gold-and-silver L-5 tailpiece, and gold Kluson Sealfast tuners are other trademark features. The finish is a beautifully shaded sunburst lacquer.

The 5-piece laminated maple neck is relatively slim for a '64, sleek feeling and quite comfortable. Either acoustically or plugged in this splendid L-5C plays effortlessly with the absolutely classic Gibson-DeArmond tone. This is an extremely beautiful instrument and simply one of the finest examples of a 1960's L-5 we have seen...or heard!

Overall length is 41 7/8 in. (106.4 cm.), 17 in. (43.2 cm.) wide at lower bout, and 3 3/8 in. (8.6 cm.) in depth, measured at side of rim. Scale length is 25 1/2 in. (648 mm.). Width of nut is 1 11/16 in. (43 mm.).

This guitar is really quite clean overall, with some scattered dings and dents (mostly to the top) but not much actual play wear. There is one noticeable ding through the top finish behind the upper F-hole. For the most part the finish still shines like LBJ is in office and the gold is still mostly shiny, with some light wear and tarnish. The DeArmond installation is the only major alteration, along with a strap button on the neck heel.

This L-5 plays wonderfully, with a well-rounded but still crisp sound and is a great example of the final generation of these really high-grade carved guitars from Kalamazoo. It is still housed in the original yellow-lined black Tolex hardshell case, with some external wear but very solid, a true classic of its type. Overall Excellent + Condition.