1980 Ibanez Artist AM-50 Tobaccco, Very Good, Hard, $999.00

Summary: A great example of the stellar Japanese guitars that were making the big American makers nervous in the eighties, this AM-50 is a small-bodied semi-hollow similar to in size to the later Gibson ES-339

Body: Laminated maple top, back and sides. Arched, semi-hollow construction with center block and f-holes. Smaller body size, similar to a Gibson ES-339. Bound top and back. Tobacco burst finish.

Neck: Three-ply maple. Bound rosewood fretboard with dot inlays. 24.75” scale.

Electronics/Hardware: Super 58 humbuckers. Two volume and two tone controls; three-way pickup selector. Sure Grip II control knobs. Chrome hardware. Gibraltar II bridge with Quik Change II tailpiece. USA Sperzel locking tuners (non-original).

Cosmetics: This guitar is in very good shape for its age. Tthere are general dings and dents to the finish on the body and neck, and finish chipping on the headstock, all signs of regular usage over the years. The frets show a small amount of wear, but still have plenty of life left. There are two small holes on the body rim near the neck pocket on the treble side, likely from an attempted strap button install. The holes from the original tuners have been filled, but are still visible on the back of the headstock.

Playability: This guitar plays beautifully, with low action and no buzz or dead spots. The neck has comfortable tapered C shape and the smaller body balances well; all of the vibe of a 335 style guitar is there, without all the bulk. The desirable Super 58 pickups are strong and detailed, with tons of vintage style tone on tap.

Weight: 7 lbs, 1 oz.

Case: Hard shell.