Gibson Banjo Appraisal

Vintage Gibson Acoustic Guitar

This is a vintage Gibson acoustic guitar, presented within its plush, red-lined hard case. The guitar features a sunburst finish, transitioning from a dark, almost black edge to a reddish-brown and then a lighter, amber-colored center on the spruce top. The body appears to be a dreadnought or similar large-bodied acoustic shape, hinting at a robust sound. The top exhibits significant signs of natural wear, including numerous small scratches, dings, and some finish checking, consistent with an older instrument that has been played regularly over many years. The binding around the body edges is a light, perhaps cream or ivoroid, color. The pickguard is black and appears to be glued directly to the body. A distinctive feature is the soundhole pickup, a rectangular, light-colored (possibly white or cream) unit with visible pole pieces, indicating it has been modified or originally equipped for amplification. The bridge is made of rosewood or ebony, featuring six bridge pins. The fretboard is dark, likely rosewood or ebony, and is adorned with split parallelogram mother-of-pearl or pearloid inlays, a signature Gibson characteristic. The headstock is black with the 'Gibson' logo clearly visible in a cursive script, possibly inlaid in mother-of-pearl or a similar material. The tuners are of a vintage-style, open-gear design with cream-colored tuning pegs. A blue triangular guitar pick is resting on the fretboard near the upper frets. The overall condition suggests a well-used but cherished instrument, showcasing a lovely patina from age and use. The hard case, with its deep red crushed velvet interior, protects the guitar, and its latches appear to be in working order.