1938 Vega C-20 Sunburst, Excellent, Original Hard, $1,150.00

Vega C-20 Archtop ca. 1938 | $1375 | The Vega company is known mostly for its banjos, but as interest in the banjo waned in the '30s, Vega began producing guitars. This example appears to be a model C-20, which was an 'entry level' instrument. The scale length is 25", the lower bout measures 14 11/16" and body depth is 3 1/8" at the end pin. The build quality is high. The guitar features a carved top in a fine grade of spruce. The sides are mahogany, and the back appears to be ply mahogany. The neck is mahogany as well, and is carved into a very modern feeling 'C' shape, very comfortable to the hand. The fingerboard is Brazilian rosewood, slightly radiused, and sports four position dots. The head stock is painted gloss black, with white-painted 'Vega' in a star. Serial number 32560 is stamped into the top of the head stock, but its reported that these numbers are not accurate when dating the Vega guitar line. The bridge is ebony with height adjusting wheels. The black pick guard is functionally austere, with a somewhat Deco look. Inside the bass F-hole is a gold foil sticker embossed: The Vega Co. Musical Instruments 155 Columbus Ave. Boston Mass. Overall, the guitar is in excellent physical condition with only a few nicks, quite well made from quality materials, and show no evidence of any repairs or mistreatment. When played with a pick the tone is cutting and will project, but it also fingerpicks quite well, too. The guitar comes with its original purple-lined hard case, with a gold 'Vega' sticker pasted on the inside of the lid.