A Gibson J160e from the 1954 release year is one of the rarest and most unique acoustic-electric guitars Gibson ever made! Only 456 of this groundbreaking model were built in 1954, all still featuring the original solid Sitka spruce top with ladder bracing, a specification that was replaced by plywood in 1955. With its unique Beatles connection and historical significance as Gibson's first electro-acoustic flattop, this is a guitar that combines both musical history and absolute rarity.

The Gibson J160e was launched in 1954 as Gibson's first attempt at an electro-acoustic flattop guitar, originally conceived as the "Les Paul Flattop." However, Les Paul refused to sign off on the design because the solid spruce top would have been much more prone to feedback than a laminated top. Nevertheless, Gibson launched the model with its revolutionary P90 pickup mounted at the end of the fingerboard on the 15-fret neck. This pickup, along with an adjustable bridge, was a first for Gibson flattops. The unique design caught the attention of The Beatles, who used several J160e guitars for their early recordings and performances, making these guitars iconic in pop music history.

The combination of the solid spruce top with ladder bracing and the P90 pickup creates a distinctive sound that sounds more electric than acoustic-electric. Acoustically, the guitar has a more limited projection than traditional Gibson flattops due to the ladder bracing system, but when electrically amplified it develops that characteristic warm, round P90 sound so recognizable from early Beatles recordings. The C-shaped mahogany neck plays comfortably with its 24.75" scale, and the adjustable bridge, while not ideal for tone, does offer practical advantages for your setup. It's a guitar you take to the studio for that distinctive vintage sound, not for campfire sessions.

This 1954 J160e is in excellent condition and retains all the characteristic features of its first production year. Over the years, the guitar has developed the expected vintage charm with playwear and weather checked finish, but is remarkably well-preserved considering its advanced age. We do find some repaired cracks on the back of the body, as well as some repairs to the binding. Furthermore, a refret and neck reset have been performed, and the tuners, bridge saddle, nut, and endpin have been replaced.

Consignment.

photos of: Actual Instrument