ca 1944 Gibson Spruce Top Banner J45

….Ooh la la, this is one sensational sounding guitar!

I am so very pleased to offer this classic Wartime J45 with a spruce top and mahogany back and sides with the banner headstock from ~1944. No legible FON, but features that include an adjustable truss rod and a single piece comfortable shallow C profile mahogany neck, original Brazilian rosewood bridge and a nicely figured rosewood fret board, square neck block and clean frets. This one has the very rich and pleasing color pattern with the absolutely gorgeous crazing setting off a well aged original inner burst in all its stupendous glory!!

At the 2013 NAMM show, Gibson announced a new series of reissue Banner guitars. At the same time John Thomas released his book Kalamazoo Gals and accompanying CD (visit his web site). Consequently 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 my 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.

This example is totally original sans a new bone saddle and a set of Willi Henkes repro Gibson bridge pins and end pin. Even the nut is original and in fine shape.

All repairs executed by professionals to put this special guitar in tip top playing condition. David Hatchard addressed the few cracks we found, tightened up an open center seam and e string crack and repaired some minor backside cracks as well. Fine work, thanks David! And Ross Teigen cleaned up some sound hole scars left over from an old clamp on pick up and he replaced the frets at the first five positions and performed the final set up, here in Florida. Thank you to Ross!

The pro set up on this guitar is suitable for the most accomplished players. Action set at a comfortable 4/3 with a 1 3/4″ nut width and proper string break across the saddle.

This is a lovely honest example with absolutely fabulous sound characteristics, just give a listen to Bob’s vintage licks on the YouTube videos.