ca 1944 Banner LG2 Spruce Top

The profile of Banner Gibsons has never been higher and it’s been difficult to keep up with the demand as I continue to get inquiries for sold Banners. I’ve made it a mission to locate and bring back as many of these historically important guitars as I can for players and audiences to enjoy.

I am happy to offer this classic all original Wartime red spruce topped mahogany back and sides LG-2 model from ~ 1944 with the battle scars to prove its heritage. Features include a beefy yet quite comfortable 3 piece maple neck with the cool mahogany center reinforcement strip, mahogany square neck block. This war shortage model does not have an adjustable truss rod, but the neck is straight and true with proper radius to the Brazilian rosewood fret board. The original Brazilian rosewood bridge is full height and the original maple bridge plate is clean and un molested. Original Kluson 3 on a strip tuners with black buttons.

The restoration work was lovingly performed by luthier David Hatchard of Exeter New Hampshire to bring this LG-2 back to optimal playing condition. The typical loose braces were glued and a complete refret performed with divots tastefully filled making the playing surface a dream. David’s fretwork is a thing to behold – neck reset, new bone saddle and nut, new Willi Henkes Antique Acoustics Gibson replica bridge pins, re glued pick guard and a professional set up suitable for even the most accomplished of players. Precise intonation and notes that ring true, bends are clean and easy. Action set to 3/32″ low E and 2/32″ high E. All set up to ensure that this guitar is maintenance free with no compromises or issues.

Cosmetics include a stunning Gibson sunburst with cool crazing and the common old scratches and typical play wear on the back of the neck and the shallow yet smoothed over scars from old capos. The top, back and sides are crack free and the general level of wear and character makes for what we consider an extremely attractive vintage instrument. We call this look “Mojo Love” ….. and this guitar has the wartime Gibson sound characteristics in spades to back it up!

These wartime LG-2’s will continue to remain highly sought after guitars for their exceptional versatility … whether performing and writing, strumming or finger style play or accompanying a singer.

Enjoy the video of Frank Corso.