Introduced in 1937 as the Gibson Super Jumbo, the Gibson SJ-200 has been would go on to be one of the most recognisable guitars throughout music history, having been used by countless players across a number of genres. Originally Gibson's top of the line flat top, it's projection, balance and signature style have made it one of Gibsons most popular acoustic guitars.
This 1953 SJ-200 is by far the best example of a post war SJ-200, with a tone and style that is hard to replicate with any other flat top instrument, and one of only 49 natural top models produced in 1953. One of the most deluxe models of the period, this guitar features a Spruce top with Maple back and sides, along with a five piece Maple neck. This guitar has a sparkling top end and plenty of volume, and is without doubt one of the sweetest sounding SJ-200s we've played. It is also incredibly lightly built, unlike other SJ-200s of the same period. The moustache bridge and fretboard are ordained with beautiful mother of pearl inlays, and the traditional ornate pickguard.
This guitar is in very good condition for its age and has sustained some minor repair work over the years. There is some lacquer checking, play wear and a couple of minor crack repairs to the top. At some point the finish has been touched up in areas with a clear lacquer that has aged differently to the original finish, showing small areas of discolouration. The neck also looks to have been blown over, and we believe a factory painted headstock stinger has been removed from the rear of the headstock, along with some sanding back of the finish in the top right corner of the front of the headstock. The tuners have been replaced and aged to match the period of the guitar. The bridge has also been slightly shaved to optimise the playing action.
This guitar has been given a full service & appraisal by our luthiers at the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 3 year warranty.
