1962 Gibson J-50 Natural, Near Mint, Original Soft, $1.00

Gibson’s J line began in 1934 with a 16″ wide round shoulder dreadnought in sunburst they called simply the “Jumbo.” The Jumbo 35 or J-35 followed suit offered only in Sunburst until 1939 when the natural finish was introduced. In 1942, Gibson redesigned the model again and split it into two offerings based upon either a sunburst or natural finish. The natural version typically featured higher quality Spruce for tops and was designated the J-50 compared to the sunburst’s slightly less prestigious J-45 designation. The J-50 was not offered between 1943 and 1947 likely because of the supply shortage of quality Spruce for tops.

This one owner 1962 Gibson J-50 has survived in wonderful original condition and is ready to go back to work. Early desirable features include a wide nut (1 11/16″), small rosette pattern (redesigned in late 1962), ceramic saddle and nylon nut. All parts are original to the guitar including the brown and red plush interior Gibson branded case and no repairs are evident. The Brazilian Rosewood fretboard features attractive spider webbing figure and the frets and neck are in excellent condition. The neck and body are crack free except for a short pickguard crack as a result of typical shrinkage. The top is rigid but lightly braced resulting excellent tone for fingerstyle and light to medium strumming. We’re confident you’ll love the tone and playability of this 1962 Gibson J-50. “Fire and Rain”, anyone?