D'Angelico Excel 1957 Natural

10-0952
Previously owned by Johnny Smith! Sold to Hank Risen.
This blonde beauty dates from 1957, a period when many collectors feel that John D'Angelico was doing his best work.
Completed on June 28, 1957 for Tom Ferguson, this Excel is a highly desirable and rare cutaway model with the coveted natural finish. Notable details include a 22-fret neck, a rear headstock overlay with diamond-shaped mother-of-pearl inlay, and Grover Imperial stairstep tuners, which complement the art deco-style stairstep truss rod cover. The pickguard may be missing, but the original seven-ply binding still remains.
Serial number: 2030
Top: Spruce, natural finish Back and sides: Maple Neck: Maple Fretboard: Ebony, block inlays Frets: 22 Bridge/tailpiece: Ebony, gold-plated D?Angelico stairstep trapeze Tuners: Grover Imperial stairstep