1946 Gibson J-45

ARCHIVED • SOLD

1946 Gibson J-45

No FON. If tone is what you're all about and Gibsons are your kind of guitars, then I can't think of an instrument that would be better suited for you than this script-logo J-45. It's a huge sounding guitar, with classic Banner-era J-45 tone: big bass and punchy trebles, with endless headroom and volume. 40's J-45's are very different animals than their 1950's offspring, and if you've not played one from the 1940's you're in for a big treat. This guitar has a lightning-fast attack, and a sparkle that you wouldn't necessary associate with a '50's era instrument. It looks and feels quite different, too. The neck is 1-3/4" wide at the nut, and has a pretty large C profile. It's not as girthy as wartime necks, but it still feels big. The sunburst top finish has a smokier vibe, with a more gradual shift from vintage amber to dark reddish brown; and at the center of the burst is a small rectangular bridge of lacquered Brazilian rosewood. A small tear-shaped tortoiseshell celluloid pickguard finishes of the top just right. It's an attractive package.
This guitar is in excellent condition overall, although the tuning machines have been changed a couple of times. There are two small and tightly repaired top cracks, and few on the back as well. Internally, the guitar has had some brace-gluing done, and is healthy. The top is perfectly arched, which is likely why this one sounds so good. Its small maple bridge plate is in good shape, too. Original lacquered bridge, original frets and bone nut (the nut has never been removed), newer bone saddle and aged plastic bridge pins. There are three-on-a strip Kluson tuners on the guitar now, but the headstock was drilled for Grovers in the past; the Klusons do a good job of hiding the old Grover footprints. The guitar's action is set at 5 to 7 64ths, and there is a hair of adjustment room left on the saddle. There is not much playwear on this guitar, and the frets are in much the same condition; there are only some minor divots on the first few frets, and the guitar plays very well up the neck. Guitars this nice don't come around to often these days...
With newer hard shell case
On Consignment
SOLD
1946 Gibson J-45
  • 1946 Gibson J-45
  • 1946 Gibson J-45
  • 1946 Gibson J-45
  • 1946 Gibson J-45
  • 1946 Gibson J-45
  • 1946 Gibson J-45
  • 1946 Gibson J-45

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