The Gibson J-55: A Rare Pre-War Masterpiece
This 1941 Gibson J-55 acoustic guitar made in Kalamazoo, Michigan, in 1941, stands as a testament to Gibson's legacy of crafting exceptional instruments. This striking deluxe jumbo flat-top guitar with its sunburst top, natural back and sides, and mahogany body, was available only briefly before World War II.
The Sound Hole features a charming White, Black, and White Celluloid Purfling, a decorative technique used on high-quality instruments from this era.
Key Features
- 1941 Gibson J-55 Acoustic
- Premium Tonewoods for Exceptional Sound: The solid spruce top delivers bright articulation and crispness, while the rich mahogany back and sides provide warmth and depth.
- Upscale Cosmetics: Original script Pearl Gibson logo and Single-bound Brazilian Rosewood Fingerboard
- Pre-War Vintage Appointments: A Carved two-tiered rosewood bridge and a unique stepped-edge "firestripe" celluloid pickguard
A Collectors Dream
This 1941 J-55 is a true collector's item, one of only 400 crafted between 1939 and 1943. It features classic white ivoroid binding, a charming white, black, and white celluloid purfling around the soundhole, and mother-of-pearl fretboard markers and headstock inlay.
The J-55 replaced the celebrated Advanced Jumbo, offering similar features but at a more accessible price of $55. This model boasts a distinctive Gibson-standard layout, deviating from the Martin-influenced design of its predecessor. With its powerful, rich tone and exceptional playability, the J-55 was favored by cowboy singers of the era.
Detailed Specifications
- Overall length: 40 3/4 in. (103.5 cm.)
- Width at lower bout: 16 1/16 in. (40.8 cm.)
- Depth at side: 4 7/8 in. (12.4 cm.)
- Scale length: 24 3/4 in. (629 mm.)
- Nut width: 1 11/16 in. (43 mm.)
- Body size: 16" wide, 20 ¼" long, 4 ¼" deep
- Bridge: Replaced with a new rosewood design
- Tuners: Original tuners included alongside currently installed 1950s Kluson tuners
This vintage Gibson Acoustic is in Perth, Western Australia.
Vintage pre-war Gibson acoustic guitars have consistently appreciated in value, making them a wise investment. This rare 1941 J-55, with its limited production, historical significance, and exceptional condition, is poised to become a prized possession in any collection.
| Year: | 1941 |
| Brand: | Gibson |
| Model: | J-55 |
| Body: | Solid Spruce Top, Mahogany Back and Sides, Length 40 3/4 in. (103.5 cm.), 16 1/16 in. (40.8 cm.) wide at lower bout, and 4 7/8 in. (12.4 cm.) in depth at side. |
| Neck: | One Piece Mahogany, Width of nut: 1 11/16" |
| Fretboard: | Brazilian Rosewood |
| Modifications & Repairs: | Replaced Rosewood Bridge. Tuners have been upgraded to single Klusons from the 1950's. Original Open Back Tuners are included in perfect working order. |
| Case: | NHSC |
