Introduced as a natural top version of the J-45 in 1947, the Gibson J-50 has been similarly synonymous with folk, rock and pop music ever since, with a balance, woody tone that gives these guitars a sound unlike any other flattop dreadnought.
This 1959 Gibson J-50 ADJ is a fantastic example of one of these guitars, from a period between 1956 and 1960 when the adjustable nylon saddle was a custom order option. The body is constructed from Sitka Spruce with Mahogany back and sides, and has a beautifully balanced sound. Gibson acoustics of this period were often lighter built and lighter braced than later models, making them more resonant and responsive than the majority of the later square shoulder models, and this J-50 is arguably the sweetest, most resonant slope shoulder Gibson we have ever had come through the door. This J-50 also features the standard J-45 appointments for the period, including a 5 point celluloid guard, Kluson single line tuners, and a rosewood board and bridge.
This guitar is in very good condition for an instrument of its age, with some obvious signs of play wear to the top and back, lacquer checking and patina, but nothing more than you would expect to see from an instrument of this vintage. This guitar is all original, with the only work carried out by our luthier being the partial regluing of a top brace and a previously repaired high e string crack.
This guitar has been given a full service by our luthiers at the Vintage Instrument Workshop, and includes a 3 year warranty.
