Gibson J-50 ADJ (1966)

Description

What's in a name? While this vintage six-string may still technically be a Gibson J-50 ADJ, a life well-lived means it no longer features the adjustable bridge from which the model gets its name, turning it (functionally) into a regular J-50. Although the absence of the original piece of rosewood may deter potential collectors, pickers and gigging musicians will leap at the opportunity to own one of the most storied and popular American dreadnaughts of all time and will be delighted to find that this one still boasts the legendary warm, rolled-off trebles that have made the J-50 an iconic and enduring fixture in popular music ever since its introduction. The 1966 models still feature the jumbo celluloid pickguards characteristic of 60s Gibsons, and this one features a one-and-five-eighths nut width, a hair wider than the ultra-slim necks typical of Gibson acoustics manufactured later in the decade.

This instrument has seen an average to above-average amount of playing wear and is best-suited for professional or hobbyist musicians who love the cool factor of a vintage Gibson, but aren't bothered by cosmetic damage. Finish checking is extensive, covering all finished portions of the guitar - the checking is especially visible on the lower bout. In some places significant cosmetic wear is apparent, including relatively sizable gashes on the top of the lower bout ranging from one to three inches in length, and occasionally as deep as two-and-a-half millimeters. Long cracks extend from the top of the soundhole up to the top of the upper bout on either side of the fingerboard, but these cracks appear stable and are likely decades old. The neck has clearly been reset and there is significant visual evidence of the work at and around the 14th fret. As mentioned above, the original adjustable bridge has been replaced with a new one made from Indian rosewood; the channeling on this new bridge is somewhat sloppy and fills are clearly visible. Finally, a K&K Pure Mini passive piezo pickup has been installed at some point in the recent past.

As the guitar currently features an excellent set up and plays well despite extensive cosmetic damage and several cracks, we consider it to be in good condition. It has long since parted with its original hard-shell case and now comes with a non-original but period-correct one which fits it securely.

*Please note, per our return policy, all sales on used and consignment instruments are final.*