1957 Gibson J-185

Mnaufactured in limited quantities from 1951 to 1959, the Gibson J-185 is widely considered as one of the best Gibson flat tops the brand has ever made. The instrument boasts a unique selection of trimmings and a tone that sets it apart from other Gibson acoustic guitars. It was designed as a somewhat smaller version of the company's flagship 'Super Jumbo' SJ-200.

Of the approximately 650 sunburst J-185's that were ever produced, this 1957 J-185 is an exceptional example from the later '50s period of production. It is one of only 71 sunburst models produced that year. While sharing stylistic similarities with the J-200, the J-185 has a completely different tone due to its smaller 16" body, which gives it a punchier and more responsive sound. In addition, the combination of the Mahogany neck, Spruce top, and Maple body—as opposed to the J-200's Maple neck—gives the instrument a rounder, more balanced tone profile than most J-200s, all the while keeping the brilliant top end clarity you would expect from a maple-bodied guitar.

The J-185 replaces the original moustache bridge used on J-200 models with a belly-up rosewood bridge inlaid with pearl Maltese cross ornamentation, along with split parallelogram fretboard inlay, pearl crest headstock logo, and factory stinger to the rear of the headstock.

This guitar is in very good condition for its age, with only minor repair work needed over the years to keep it playing and sounding as it should. The lacquer checking and play wear is not excessive and is commensurate with the instruments age. There has been one small side crack repair which has been cleated and is stable. Otherwise, the guitar is internally and externally original, and retains its rarely seen smaller form fitting Lifton hard case. 

This guitar has been given a full service & appraisal by our luthiers at the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 3 year warranty.