FEEL FREE TO REACH OUT TO JOE'S VINTAGE GUITARS in Mesa, AZ with any questions, or to chat about the instrument.

1946 Gibson Southern Jumbo (SJ) – A True Player’s Piece with Personality

We are thrilled to offer this stunning 1946 Gibson Southern Jumbo. This is a special instrument for the player who values tone, history, and a guitar that truly tells a story. While this guitar has seen a life well-lived, its voice remains powerful, articulate, and unmistakably "Golden Era" Gibson.

The History & Restoration This SJ has been meticulously cared for over the decades. It appears to have undergone a professional-grade refurbishment sometime in the 1960s. The refinish is exceptional—it is thin, resonant, and lacks the heavy, plastic feel of lesser jobs, allowing the woods to breathe and vibrate freely.

Features & Condition

• Back: Features a gorgeous, highly resonant one-piece back that is a joy to behold.
• Hardware: Retains its original bridge and original tuners, keeping its vintage integrity intact.
• Structural Note: The guitar shows a few small, stable hairline cracks—one of which has been professionally repaired. It remains structurally sound and road-ready.
• Playability: This guitar is an absolute dream to play. It features a super chunky, comfortable neck profile that fits the hand perfectly. The action is set remarkably low, offering effortless playability across the entire fretboard with absolutely no buzzing.
• The "Folk Art" Pickguard: This guitar boasts a one-of-a-kind, non-original pickguard adorned with beautiful, hand-painted flowers and vines. You will also find the name "Peggy" written in elegant script next to a small horseshoe, along with a vintage-style waterslide cowgirl with a colt on the lower bout. It is a charming, authentic touch that gives this instrument a character you simply cannot find on a standard shop floor.

The Sound

The sound is everything you would expect from a post-war Gibson—big, warm, woody, and perfectly balanced. Whether you are flatpicking or fingerstyle, this SJ delivers rich harmonics and the kind of deep, resonant projection that only comes from nearly 80 years of aging.

At Joe’s Vintage Guitars, your satisfaction is our top priority. We stand behind every instrument we sell, and we want you to feel completely confident in your purchase. That’s why we offer a 7-day return policy with no restocking fee. Take a full week to inspect, play, and fall in love with your new guitar. If for any reason it isn’t the right fit, simply return it in the same condition for a full refund—no hidden fees, no hassle. We know that buying a vintage instrument is a big decision, and we’re committed to making the process as comfortable and transparent as possible. Shop with peace of mind knowing that every guitar from Joe’s Vintage Guitars is backed by honest service and years of expertise.