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1931 Gibson Nick Lucas Special
The 12 fret mahogany is among the rarer variants of the NLS. Although there are a fair number of recorded batches built, there were very few instruments in each FON. Beyond that, the 12 fret mahogany versions are the most lightly built of the group, and the likelihood is high that most haven’t survived. And those that have lasted through these last 80 years often have the scars to prove it.
The Nick Lucas pictured here dates from late 1931 and is likely among the last of the mahogany 12 fret models. It features a hand-rubbed Cremona sunburst, white bindings, bound fingerboard and soundhole, varied-pattern pearl inlays, engraved Waverly tuners, and a pearl ‘The Gibson” inlaid in its headstock. The body depth tapers from 4-5/8” to 4-1/4” and its outline and bracing is akin to the other L-models of the day. The neck is rounded and substantial in feel, with a medium/deep carve and a nut width of 1-3/4. Scale is 24.75, and the strings taper to 2-3/8” spread at the bridge.
A beguiling guitar, the combination of its light bracing and deep body offers a tone that’s unlike anything else you’ll hear. It’s raw and throaty and still immeasurably sweet and dynamic. Dig in, and the guitar rumbles; back off and it softens beautifully. It is very much a deep-bodied 12-fret L-00 and does what you think it should, but playing it is still somehow much more than that. It also has a light feeling string response, which certainly impacts the playing experience. The strings feel lighter than they measure on this guitar, and it is among the nicest-feeling instruments in the shop.
Condition is as the pictures show. There is playwear to the top, and dings, dents, and scratches throughout. The neck finish is worn off in places, and the guitar has a well-played and attractive look. There are a pair of repaired cracks in the top heading north from the bottom, and a matching pair on the back. There are no cracks at the bridge or fingerboard extension, and the braces and bridge plate are in good shape. A few very minor side cracks, all repaired. Original bridge, newer saddle, aged modern replica bridge pins. New aged replica nut and full set-up by our shop. Fingerstyle action with full height saddle and 12-53 strings.
With period rope strap and recent hard shell case
