Yamaha FG-160 1973 Nippon Gakki MIJ Tan Label

Up for sale is this vintage 1973 Yamaha FG-160, tan label made in Japan for the domestic market (tan label vs red label -- identical guitars with the red labels being for export). As with all the FG's from this era it has a great big, clear sound, due to the 3 ply top made of all tone wood (no cheaper layers in the middle). The purpose-built Nippon Gakki factory made excellent guitars aiming to rival American made guitars back in the 1970s. There is nothing like an old Yamaha; thought by some to be the best laminated tops ever built! It has a spruce top with mahogany back, sides and neck. Beautiful rosewood fingerboard and bridge. Tuning keys are original and work smoothly. The guitar sounds just as good or better than the best of the FG-180 models I've owned and played. A real sleeper in the "FG" lineup.

Overall, the guitar is in good playing condition. There are many superficial scrapes and nicks, commensurate with a nearly 50 year old guitar that was played -- none of which affect the playability or sound of the guitar. The headstock at some point in it's life suffered a crack through the back where the screws to the tuning machines are. It was repaired long ago, and though it aesthetically doesn't look great, it's solid and doesn't impact the playability or tuning of the guitar.

Comfortable action and plays and sounds great -- nice woody tone similar to a vintage Martin D-18. Just cleaned, fretboard conditioned and setup with 11 gauge strings. Truss rod confirmed to be functioning and turns both directions as it should. Here's a chance to grab a that great vintage tone without the price tag of a Martin or old Gibson! Black gig bag branded "Superior instrument cases - San Francisco, CA" Case is in fair condition, with several rips and general wear, though it reasonably protects the guitar.

Made in Japan on Jan. 23, 1973, the 635 unit built that week. Serial number of 30123635 and "47" on inside lower bout, which translates from the Japanese Showa calendar to 1972, when the body of the guitar was finished. Domestic Nippon Gakki tan label.