ARCHIVED • SOLD

1936 Gibson L-00

A knock-out export L-00 that came to Canada some 80 years ago and has never developed a crack or a loose brace. It’s never had a neck reset, either. Incredible, really. We found this guitar in Saskatchewan, on our cross-Canada road trip at the end of March. It’s never been humidified, and is none the worse for wear. The winter of 1935/6 was clearly a really cold one in Michigan.

The guitar is in incredible condition and shows very little wear. The bridge appears to have been reglued, and the bridge plate is a larger rosewood replacement that we opted to leave in place as the guitar sounds great. The top measures thinner than normal mid 1930’s spec; and, at about .100”, is more like a pre-1933 Gibson. That larger plate was likely installed to help stiffen up a loose and unstable top. There is a little bit of finish wear along the treble edge of the neck, minor scratches at the lower bass side of the top, and a small assortment of very minor dings and scratches. Pickwear is minimal, belt-wear is non-existent.

We’ve replaced the frets and the saddle, the balance of the guitar is factory original. The old rope strap is a nice extra.

Set up with an action a bit lower than 5-7 64ths with 12-54 strings. Playability is excellent, the neck angle is near perfect.

The guitar is warmer and more open than most mid 1930’s L-00s, and has a rich and supportive midrange that’s well matched to the guitar’s nice overtone richness. It has a strong fundamental and excellent bass to treble balance, which makes is quite a versatile L-00. It takes a flatpick as well as bare fingers.

The neck has a V carve and medium depth. The nut measures 1-3/4” across, and the depth at the first fret it measures .936”. 2-3/8” string spread at the bridge, 24.75” scale.

With original non-functional chipboard case.
1936 Gibson L-00

SHOP VINTAGE & USED

Don't just browse history. Play it.

If you like what you see in our archive, you’ll love what’s currently in the shop. Explore our hand-picked selection of available vintage and used gear.

Shop Vintage & Used
Folkway Music in Guelph, Ontario Canada

OUR STORY

Three decades of industry experience

We've spent thirty years building relationships with musicians, collectors, and fellow dealers across Canada and the US. Every guitar we sell has been inspected, played, and approved by hands that know the difference.

Learn More