1935 Gibson L-Century
Not in Stock

1935 Gibson L-Century
The Gibson Century of Progress models were introduced in 1933 in acknowledgement of the Chicago World Fair of that year. Dubbed “A Century of Progress International Exposition” the theme of the event was Technological Innovation, and Gibson hoped to gain some marketing leverage by introducing a line of celluloid-clad instruments that were named after the exhibit.

The L-Century is an L-1 with figured maple back and sides, pearloid-clad fingerboard and matching headstock. It’s a unique looking instrument and certainly not for everyone, but if you like it you probably can’t get enough of it. That’s the way we feel about them, anyway.

This example has a strong voice with more warmth than one would expect, along with a little bit of added clarity and definition thanks to the maple back, sides, and fingerboard (the pearloid is laminated to maple). It’s quite a lot like a good L-00 in terms of tone.

The back and sides have been refinished, the top and neck sport original finish. There’s no obvious reason for the finish work as there are no cracks on this guitar, and no signs of impact of damage. The neck angle is perfect, having been reset at the time of refinish, and the fretwork is quite good. The bridge is a replacement that was made here at Folkway, and the bridge pins are originals. Original tuners, nut, and endpin. While there are typical brace repairs to the back braces, the top’s braces and bridgeplate are in excellent shape and without repairs.

V-shaped neck with a nut width of 1-3/4” and 24.75” scale.

With hardshell case
1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century
  • 1935 Gibson L-Century

Expertly set up

Each new instrument is professionally set up by Folkway’s
in-house repair team and can be adjusted to meet your specific needs.

Quality guarantee

We inspect each new instrument that arrives to ensure it meets our very high standards, so you don’t have to. 

Fully insured shipping

Carefully packaged, secure and insured shipping to guarantee your instrument arrives safely.

You may also like

Frequently asked questions

What is the return policy?

Our goal is for every customer to be totally satisfied with their purchase. If this isn't the case, let us know and we'll do our best to work with you to make it right.
Are any purchases final sale?

We are unable to accept returns on certain items. These will be carefully marked before purchase.
When will I get my order?

We will work quickly to ship your order as soon as possible. Once your order has shipped, you will receive an email with further information. Delivery times vary depending on your location.
Where are your products manufactured?

Our products are manufactured both locally and globally. We carefully select our manufacturing partners to ensure our products are high quality and a fair value.
How much does shipping cost?

Shipping is calculated based on your location and the items in your order. You will always know the shipping price before you purchase.
Vintage Fender Stratocaster guitar with vintage Fender Tremolux amplifier and case on a wooden floor

SELL & TRADE

Sell, consign, or trade your vintage guitars at Folkway.

Famous for our professionalism, knowledge, and integrity, we make the process of selling your instrument or entire collection safe, simple, and straightforward.

 Sell Your Guitar

OUR STORY

Three decades of 

industry experience.

Folkway’s commitment to next-level customer care, top-tier repair and restoration, unmatched quality and unwavering integrity are the hallmarks of everything we do.
Our Full Story
Two people playing vintage guitars on a couch in a living room with large windows.