1959 Gibson J-200 Steel String Acoustic (SOLD)

Introduced in 1938 as the Super Jumbo 200 or SJ-200 with rosewood back and sides, as one of the last pre-WW2 guitar models. In 1947 it gained maple back and sides and in 1954 was renamed the J-200. Around 1999, reflecting Gibson's move towards renewing historical models, it was once again renamed the SJ-200.

The Gibson J-200 is a top of the line model, so at some points production has been very limited, but it has been available since its introduction.

This fine example was built during 1959 at the Gibson Kalamazoo plant. It is in largely original condition and has had a few small touch ups, and a pair of rhinestones were removed from the bridge area. The bridge itself, the saddle and tuner buttons have been replaced. There is a typical crack along the edge of the pickguard - this happens because of the difference in shrinkage rates between the pickguard and the top. There are significant braces underneath these cracks, so they are not structural.

The first seven frets have been replaced - a sure sign that this guitar was used as intended, but it has been well taken care of and not abused. The original hardshell case is included.

It's always fun to play instruments like this, especially if they've been played in as this has. For my hands, the late-50's neck profile is a bit full, but this is by no means oversized. It has a wonderful sound with powerful projection. It's bright without being harsh, and full without being bassy. It has a lot of everything, but not too much - this guitar would be easy to place in a recording mix, and it would sound great there.