This is a fine example of a mahogany war-years Banner Gibson, that even features a mahogany neck, back, and sides, to match the one-piece straight grain Hog Top. FON on the neck-block puts this instrument in 1944. YouTube video is at “Vintage 1944 banner hog LG2 Gibson.” The top is a seamless one-piece of top grade mahogany producing a mellow sustaining tone but with plenty of bite. Importantly, unlike most war-year banners, this top is crack free and does not suffer belly bulge with 12-53 strings. The finish all over this instrument shows mild age-related crackling, the kind we love to see. Quite rare for the war-period, instead of 3-piece laminated maple, birch, or whatever neck, Gibson actually matched the special one piece mahogany top with a one piece mahogany neck as Gibson originally intended. The neck, typical for the era, is slightly on the fat side compared to most Gibsons made today, but it is not awkward to play at all. (in the video, I‘m easily able to fret a low F note with my thumb on a full 6 string F chord.) The neck is straight as intended, and it‘s definitely slimmer than other Banners I’ve owned and played. Also, this Banner enjoys a functional truss-rod. I detect a thin, subtle application of clear overcoat on the back of the neck, presumably to smooth out some old capo wear. The Brazilian Rosewood fingerboard is in good shape and the original frets still have life left in them, although 1st through 5th show wear. The bridge-plate appears original as shown in the photo. The rosewood bridge is an original design replacement. The current string-height and action are comfortable and currently set as shown in the photographs in inches and millimeters. There’s adequate saddle to lower the action if desired. The “wartime restricted tuners“ made with reduced metal, peened crown screws, and unreliable buttons, have been upgraded to early post-war style Klusons, retaining the identical footprint. The guitar‘s neck-joint reveals subtle evidence of a clean successful re-set having been performed. The only cracks on this instrument are on the back and they have been repaired and are now completely stable. The cracks look worse than they are since they stand out in an area of the back that’s lost finish from buckle-wear, sweat, bumps, and scrapes, etc, consistent with the guitar‘s use and age. Fortunately, these cracks and their repairs do not affect tone, volume, or structural integrity, just my price. When I play this instrument, I can hear and I feel myself being transported to that very era when steady women of our greatest generation crafted these Banners with determined skill and love, awaiting soldiers’ return. I bet you will feel the same way I do. Fortunately, this guitar is free of noxious orders, including smoke. The guitar is housed in a brand new perfect fitting hardshell case. Of course, 3 day hassle-free return policy even at this below market price. I only ship to lower 48 with Brazilian Rosewood. I say better hurry!