1938 Recording King AB-104 "Roy Smeck" Lap Steel – Gibson Made – Original Case, Receipt & Vintage Strings

Up for sale is a 1938 Recording King AB-104 "Roy Smeck" model lap steel, manufactured by Gibson during the golden age of American instrument building. This is a rare and historically significant instrument that combines outstanding collectibility with a wonderful vintage sound.

For those unfamiliar, Recording King instruments sold through Montgomery Ward during this era were often built by major manufacturers, and the AB-104 is one of the desirable Gibson-made examples. Nearly 90 years later, this steel remains a fantastic piece of American musical history.

Included

• Original hard shell case
• What appears to be the original sales receipt
• Vintage NOS set of strings
• Original instrument

Condition

Considering its age, this instrument remains in very good condition and is fully capable of making music today.

The pickup sounds excellent and delivers the warm, singing tone that made these early Gibson-built steels so popular.

A few items worth noting:

• Volume control functions properly
• Tone control is not functioning correctly and likely needs a resistor or capacitor replacement
• Pots have been cleaned but remain somewhat stiff
• If the instrument is to be used regularly, the controls may benefit from professional servicing
• As always, I strongly recommend preserving any original components that are replaced
• Tuners appear to be original
• There appears to have been a spill on the back of the headstock at some point in its life, visible near the top and running down the center of the rear headstock. Please review photos carefully.

Why This Instrument Matters

The Roy Smeck models occupy a special place in Gibson history. Associated with one of the most influential stringed instrument performers of the era, these instruments represent a fascinating chapter in the development of electric and Hawaiian music.

The pickup has a rich, expressive voice with the kind of warmth and character that modern reproductions struggle to duplicate. Whether you're a player, collector, recording studio owner, or vintage instrument enthusiast, this lap steel offers both historical significance and inspiring tone.

Collector Appeal

Finding a pre-war Gibson-built Recording King is exciting enough. Finding one that includes what appears to be its original receipt, original case, and a vintage NOS string set makes this example particularly special.

Please review all photos carefully as they are an important part of the description. Feel free to reach out with any questions.

A beautiful and increasingly rare pre-war Gibson-built Roy Smeck lap steel that sounds wonderful, displays beautifully, and would make an outstanding addition to any serious collection or recording studio.