1939–1941 Gibson Mastertone Special 6-String Lap Steel – Brown Crinkle Finish – Original Hardshell Case

Up for sale is an absolutely killer vintage Gibson-made Mastertone Special six-string electric lap steel, dating to approximately 1939–1941, complete with its original fitted hardshell case!

What a fantastic piece of prewar American guitar history!

These old Mastertone Specials have an unmistakable character, and this example is particularly appealing thanks to its wonderfully preserved brown crinkle finish, beautiful Art Deco-inspired appointments, and exceptionally cool original case.

The textured brown finish is one of the standout features of these instruments. Paired with the decorative fingerboard inlays, contrasting metal pickup assembly, black control knobs, and classic Mastertone Special headstock logo, it gives this lap steel an incredibly distinctive appearance.

There’s something special about these early electric Hawaiian-style instruments. They capture an era when electric guitar design was still evolving, and manufacturers were experimenting with new shapes, finishes, pickups, and hardware.

FEATURES & HIGHLIGHTS

• Vintage Gibson-made Mastertone Special six-string lap steel
• Circa 1939–1941
• Made in the USA
• Distinctive textured brown crinkle finish
• Original-style Mastertone Special headstock logo
• Beautifully decorated fingerboard with geometric position markers
• Six-string lap steel configuration
• Single covered electric pickup
• Two-knob control layout
• Contrasting textured metal control and pickup plate
• Open-gear tuning machines with black buttons
• Side-mounted output jack
• Includes original fitted hardshell case with red plush interior

CONDITION

This Mastertone Special presents beautifully for an instrument approaching 85 years old.

The textured brown finish remains remarkably attractive, with the expected light cosmetic wear, aging, and patina associated with a vintage instrument of this age.

The pickup cover, control plate, bridge hardware, and other metal appointments display the kind of natural aging that gives these early electric guitars so much character.

The fingerboard looks particularly striking, with its decorative geometric position markers contrasting beautifully against the dark surface.

The headstock retains its Mastertone Special branding, which remains clearly visible.

Overall, this is a very clean and well-preserved vintage example with an incredible period-correct aesthetic.

ORIGINAL HARDSHELL CASE

One of the best parts of this package is the original fitted hardshell case!

This is not your average generic lap steel case. It features the wonderful vintage styling and construction associated with the fitted cases supplied for Gibson’s higher-end lap steel instruments of the era.

The exterior has a distinctive striped fabric covering, while the interior features a beautiful deep red plush lining with a fitted compartment for the instrument.

The case shows expected wear from age and use, including exterior scuffs, edge wear, and wear to the handle covering, but remains an especially desirable companion to this instrument.

Finding one of these early lap steels with its original fitted case is always a welcome bonus.

OVERALL

An absolutely killer Gibson-made Mastertone Special lap steel with outstanding prewar character!

Between the gorgeous brown crinkle finish, unusual fingerboard appointments, vintage hardware, and original fitted hardshell case, this is a fantastic example of an early American electric steel guitar.

Whether you’re a collector of prewar Gibson instruments, an enthusiast of vintage lap steels, or simply someone who appreciates unusual pieces of guitar history, this Mastertone Special has a tremendous amount of charm.

A lovely, very clean vintage instrument with a fantastic original case.

Please examine all photographs carefully, as they are part of the condition description.

Professionally packed and shipped with care by Joe’s Vintage Guitars.