Montgomery Ward Gibson arch top copy 1930s-1950s - Tea burst

Here's something a little different. The headstock says Lee Gibbs Concertone and the only other marking is the number 146 which can be seen through the bass side 'f' hole written in pencil. The headstock design is most assuredly Gibson-esque. Folks I've spoken with believe the headstock and Gibbs was designed to subliminally associate the guitar with a Gibson. I researched Lee Gibbs and found nothing, so I don't think he was a great jazz player. It's also been difficult to date. The guy I got it from said it was from the thirties, but I haven't been able to verify that. Indeed, most others that I've found are from the fifties.

But here's the thing: this guitar is well built. I don't know who built it, but it is a solid arch top whatever it's age is. My guess is it came out of one of the Chicago manufacturers that produced Regals, Kays, Oahu, Silvertone, Harmony and many others. All components are original except the bridge which I believe is a modern replacement. The fretboard is Brazilian, I'm sure. Frets are in great shape with lots of life left in them. The tuners are original to the guitar and hold tune perfectly. All of them are straight and work smoothly. Neck profile is large and thick...not quite Gibson baseball bat dimensions, but not far off. Binding has many cracks but none of it is loose, deteriorating, or coming apart. I believe the pick guard is original. Comes in a non-descript gig bag.

She stays in tune and sounds really good to me, but not loud. The smooth tone is pleasing and the playability is easy with no buzzing. Certainly not for everyuone, but she's also more than a eclectic wall hanger.

Please write with questions or requests for additional photos. I'll get back with you promptly. Shipping to Alaska and Hawaii will cost more and be calculated exactly. International bidders welcome! I have to put a shipping amount on Reverb's template, but we will also figure your cost exactly as it can vary widely once we cross borders.