1941 Gibson J-55 Golden Sunburst

FON: 3002 G. Here is a super impressive J-55 from 1941 that pushes all the buttons. It’s vintage clean and original as they come. Of the three mahogany slope shouldered dreadnoughts Gibson produced in this era – the J-35, J-45 and J-55 – the J-55 had the most distinctive appointments and possibly the best overall workmanship. Additionally, at 3lbs and 14 oz., it’s surprisingly lightweight for a Gibson dread and has a deep rich sound, lively response and a lengthy sustain. The original red line case completes this terrific package.

The J-55 experienced some significant design changes in its short life. This one represents the final configuration before the model was discontinued in 1942. The back and sides are mahogany with a natural finish. The spruce top is finished a “golden” sunburst with dark brown toward the rims and a large amber center. Both are bound. The three point “batwing” bridge with three bridge bolts replaced the “mustache” bridge in 1941. The pickguard is a “terraced” firestripe design that stretches from the fingerboard tongue nearly to the bridge. The Gibson logo is inlayed prominently on an “open book” headstock and the bound fingerboard uses simple dots and double dots for position markers. The appointments are both subtle and sublime and they come together in a really cool design.

The condition is superb. The finish is original. There’s light checking on the top, light wear on the east side of the sound hole, some pick strikes east of the pickguard, a few light dings. The tuners nut, and bridge are original as are the frets. Even the bridge pins look original. Recent neck reset and full refret by Gruhn Guitars. Immaculate work. No cracks. The neck is a modern feeling D profile with a 1-11/16” nut that is very comfortable to play. This is a superb example that sounds terrific and is fun to play.

As mentioned, it comes with the original rid line case in good shape except that the Lifton medallion is missing.

SPECS:

Top: Spruce
Band & Sides: Mahogany
Bridge & Fretboard: Brazilian rosewood
Appointments: Batwing bridge, terraced pickguard, bound body & fingerboard
Nut width: 1-11/16”
String spacing: 2-3/8”
Body width: 16”
Depth: 4-13/16”
Scale length: 24.9”
Case: OHSC