1952 Gibson L-50

In the '30s, Maybelle Carter revolutionized American guitar playing with her 1928 Gibson L-5. Her famous archtop was 16" across on the lower about, and even though the L-5 became a wider 17" by 1934, fortunately Gibson carried on the tradition of the 16" archtop with other models such as the L-50. There is a particular tone to a 16" archtop that you won't get from other guitars. It has a round, direct sound that isn't exactly a jazz guitar (even though the f-holes might fool you). A good 16" is a natural fit for old-time, blues, or folk music where an expressive guitar with a wide dynamic range is needed. Inside the treble f-hole of this L-50, you'll find Factory Order Number Z2878 29, which means it was made in Kalamazoo, Michigan in 1952. Typical of the era, it has a beautiful darker sunburst that has nicely patina-ed with time. While has obviously been played over the years (just dig the wear around the pickguard "tan line"), it finds us in nice condition. It also plays nicely with