Gibson goodness awaits in the form of this beautiful 1951 Gibson J-45, constructed factory scalloped bracing, all solid wood (from ‘52 onwards, sides were laminate), Brazilian Rosewood fingerboard and bridge, and the classic small maple bridge plate.

TONE

Strong projective ability paired with typical Gibson warmth and a surprising amount of Martin esque overtone. In some of ways, it reminds me of a Martin D-21, in that both possess dry, woody authority along with trailing sparkle many solely associate with mahogany guitars.

Tonally, this specific boasts the best of both worlds. The factory scalloped bracing and small bridge plate aid in contributing towards the exceptional responsiveness of the instrument.

PLAYABILITY

• Excellent. I can grip extended chords up and down the neck as well hit lead lines at whim. The neck is straight and does not need to be reset.
• Action is medium height, with plenty of saddle left over.
• The wide U-shaped neck has heft, it is not unwieldy.

CONDITION

- Very good to excellent relative to its age. All components except the nut frets and tuners (originals provided with guitar) appear original. The bridge plate also appears to be original, but at some point the pin holes were replugged to maximize plate life.

- The finish appears to be all original with tasteful checking and patina accumulated over seven decades. It is cosmetically worn not abused.

- The is one superficial back crack and a very faint pickguard crack. Both are stable and appear to have occurred decades ago.

- The frets are tall and healthy with minimal playwear.

SPECS

- 1 11/16th” nut width

- Sitka spruce top

- Brazilian Rosewood Fingerboard and Bridge

- Mahogany back and sides

- Factory scalloped bracing

- All solid wood