1955 Gibson J-185 Sunburst

Gibson J-185 Sunburst 1955 full front view

Comments	Here is a lovely 1955 Gibson J-185 Sunburst. Introduced in 1951 as a smaller alternative to the big Super Jumbo models like the J-200, the J-185 offers similar aesthetics (though it’s nowhere near as decorated!) with a shorter scale length (24.75 inch, as with the J-35 and most Gibson electrics). It was discontinued in 1958, with few made. In 1962, Gibson modified the J-185 design, with an adjustable bridge, star inlays, black finish and big dual pickguards – as the Everly Brothers model. This very good condition example of the original J-185 design plays well and has a clear, crisp, balanced sound.
Serial Number	A20701, built during 1955 in Kalamazoo, Michigan, USA.
Pricing	$13,500 CAD with original case. SOLD
Neck	Mahogany neck with bound rosewood fingerboard. Faux pearl split parallelogram position markers, mother of pearl leaf and Gibson logo on black headplate. 24.75 inch scale length, slim rounded profile.
Frets	At some point this instrument was professionally refretted, and the frets are worn in the lower positions.
Body	Smaller Jumbo body, maple back and sides with spruce top; rosewood bridge with characteristic ‘maltese crosses’ on the bridge ends.
Finish	Original gloss sunburst nitrocellulose lacquer finish, in very good condition.
Hardware/electronics	Original Kluson Deluxe tuners with plastic keystone buttons. Faux Tortoise pickguard, bone saddle, delrin nut.
Playability/Action	Plays well, and the body size is quite comfortable.
Case	Original brown Gibson hardshell case included.