Based on the still-produced SJ-200 Western Classic, the Gibson Western Classic Mystic Rosewood was built in a limited edition during 2015 under the guidance of Ren Ferguson.

Gibson’s SJ-200, sometimes just called the J-200, is one of the iconic American steel string guitars, one of the largest and often regarded as top of the line. It has been used by countless players from the Everly Brothers and Emmylou Harris to Jimmy Page and Pete Townsend. It features a Sitka Spruce top, and either Maple or Rosewood for the sides and back; the neck is Maple with a Rosewood fingerboard and distinctive ‘Moustache’ bridge. Inlays and position markers are Mother of Pearl, with panels in the bridge, block markers up the neck, and a Gibson Script style logo and torch on the headstock.

The Gibson Western Classic Mystic is very similar to the Western Classic, but uses ‘Mystic Rosewood’ for the sides and back. This Rosewood comes from the base of the tree, with the weight compressing and shifting the grain, and is flat-sawn to emphasize its spectacular and complex figuring. These woods were hand-selected by Ren Ferguson, who at the time was the chief Luthier at Gibson Acoustic in Bozeman, Montana, and the ‘Limited Edition’ ended when they ran out of wood.

An interesting detail is that the frets extend over the binding, rather than the binding covering the fret ends. The binding covering the fret ends is a distinctly Gibson trait stemming from a production process. Usually, Gibson frets the fingerboard while it’s off the guitar, then binds it, and then it is mounted to the neck. Here, the fingerboard was mounted and bound first, and the frets installed afterwards. That’s what happens during most re-frets, and it gives a bit more playing surface.

This example dates to December 15, 2014 and is in overall good condition. A small crack in the back has been glued and cleated by The Twelfth Fret Repair staff. It has been set up, plays well and has a full, rich sound with lots of presence.

The original Gibson hard shell case is included.

From The Builder On The Gibson Western Classic Mystic Rosewood Jumbo:

“Our timeless Western Classic offered as a Limited Edition built with select Mystic Rosewood back and sides. Elegant design elements set this desirable model apart from others. The classic mother-of-pearl script and torch are hand inlaid along with the block positions markers. Added binding on the top, pickguard and around the sound hole with multi-ply binding enhances the unique custom look. The peghead carries premium gold Waverly tuners, continuing the simple and sophisticated custom touches on this Limited Edition. “

Gibson Western Classic Mystic Rosewood Specifications: