Vintage 1960s Kay K-7020 Concerto Classic Nylon-String Guitar w/ Alligator Chipboard Case

Vintage 1960s Kay K-7020 Concerto Classic Nylon-String Guitar w/ Alligator Chipboard Case

A genuine Chicago-made Kay from the height of America’s folk-guitar era, this vintage K-7020 combines traditional classical-guitar construction with the distinctive character and history of an original 1960s Kay.

Known in period Kay literature as the Concerto Classic Guitar, the K-7020 appeared in the company’s catalog line during the 1960s. Kay described it as a strong-value instrument built in the “true classic design,” featuring a traditional wide fingerboard, slotted headstock, glued-on classical bridge, maple body and nylon-string configuration.

Kay Musical Instrument Company was one of America’s largest and most influential instrument manufacturers. Based in Chicago, Kay produced instruments under its own name as well as for numerous major retailers. Although best remembered today for its archtop and electric guitars, Kay also offered a full range of student and intermediate classical instruments during the folk revival of the 1960s.

The interior label identifies this example as Style No. K-7020 and retains the original “The Classic Guitar” and Kay Musical Instrument Co. markings. A factory number—apparently L9185—is stamped inside the body. Kay did not publish a reliably decodable serial-number system, so this number should be regarded as a factory production or batch marking rather than proof of an exact manufacturing date.

Included is a wonderfully period-appropriate brown alligator-pattern chipboard case with molded handle and metal latches. The case shows considerable age-related wear, including edge and interior wear, but adds plenty of authentic vintage presentation and helps complete the package.

Features

• Vintage Kay K-7020 Concerto Classic Guitar
• Made in Chicago, Illinois, USA
• Estimated 1960s production
• Full-size classical-style body
• Six-string nylon-string configuration
• Natural-finished top
• Dark-stained maple back and sides
• Traditional wide classical fingerboard
• Slotted classical-style headstock
• Three-per-side open-gear tuning machines
• Glued-on classical-style bridge
• Round soundhole with decorative rosette
• Neck joins the body at the 12th fret
• Interior Kay “The Classic Guitar” label
• Factory marking: L9185
• Includes period alligator-pattern chipboard case

This guitar exhibits cosmetic wear consistent with its age. The chipboard case also shows substantial wear, including separation and deterioration along portions of its edges and lining. Please examine the photographs carefully for a complete representation of its cosmetic condition.