1945 Gibson 'Banner' J-45
No FON. We've always had a thing for Banner era Gibsons here at Folkway. Those of you who've followed our website over the years have come to know that about us. So naturally, we were tickled when this really clean and crack-free 1945 J-45 found us recently. The guitar is in just great shape and came to us with only one brace slightly loose (that we've since glued up). We generally assume we'll need to glue braces every time we encounter an older Gibson, but were very pleasantly surprised with this one! No other braces have ever been loose or reglued, and the original bridge plate is also in perfect condition.
It's a later Banner, built most likely in 1945. Unlike most banner production, this guitar features a very manageably sized, truss-rod equipped, one-piece mahogany neck and bookmatched spruce top. One piece mahogany back and matching sides, gloss lacquer finish, original Kluson tuners and original bone nut as well.
The guitar is in exceptional condition and is without cracks or any over-worn finish. The bridge was reglued and the frets were replaced prior to arriving at Folkway. Three small capo-caused lacquer chips on the back side of the neck were professionally repaired as well. Fret dress, new aged bone saddle and a set-up were just completed by Folkway's Mark Stutman. Playability is heavenly, with an action set at 5-6 64ths at the 12th fret.
As far as Banner Gibson tone goes, this guitar scores high marks. The mahogany neck makes it a warmer and looser sounding guitar than many of the Maple-necked versions, and the Sitka top lets the warmth and darkness out. As compared to a post-war J-45, this Banner is bolder, louder, and more present; with a bit less 'thump' in the lows and a more robust fundamental overall. It's a remarkably fun guitar to play as it's both a great flatpicker and thumb-strummer. The feel of the neck is very comfortable and modern -- it's not at all a 'baseball bat neck' - but it's still on the larger size relative to the post-banner era Gibson necks. 1-3/4" at the nut, 24.75" scale
A wonderful Banner J-45 in remarkably fine condition. With its great looks, top-notch tone and playability, and more contemporary neck-feel, this is a Banner that is appealing on every level.
With modern deluxe hardshell case.
Shipping into the USA?
Sending this guitar to a US address is easy to do, and there are no import fees, taxes, or duties to pay when it arrives. We take care of everything involved in shipping -- all you have to do unpackage the instrument when it arrives and play!
Questions? Email us anytime, or call us toll-free at 1-855-772-0424.
It's a later Banner, built most likely in 1945. Unlike most banner production, this guitar features a very manageably sized, truss-rod equipped, one-piece mahogany neck and bookmatched spruce top. One piece mahogany back and matching sides, gloss lacquer finish, original Kluson tuners and original bone nut as well.
The guitar is in exceptional condition and is without cracks or any over-worn finish. The bridge was reglued and the frets were replaced prior to arriving at Folkway. Three small capo-caused lacquer chips on the back side of the neck were professionally repaired as well. Fret dress, new aged bone saddle and a set-up were just completed by Folkway's Mark Stutman. Playability is heavenly, with an action set at 5-6 64ths at the 12th fret.
As far as Banner Gibson tone goes, this guitar scores high marks. The mahogany neck makes it a warmer and looser sounding guitar than many of the Maple-necked versions, and the Sitka top lets the warmth and darkness out. As compared to a post-war J-45, this Banner is bolder, louder, and more present; with a bit less 'thump' in the lows and a more robust fundamental overall. It's a remarkably fun guitar to play as it's both a great flatpicker and thumb-strummer. The feel of the neck is very comfortable and modern -- it's not at all a 'baseball bat neck' - but it's still on the larger size relative to the post-banner era Gibson necks. 1-3/4" at the nut, 24.75" scale
A wonderful Banner J-45 in remarkably fine condition. With its great looks, top-notch tone and playability, and more contemporary neck-feel, this is a Banner that is appealing on every level.
With modern deluxe hardshell case.
Shipping into the USA?
Sending this guitar to a US address is easy to do, and there are no import fees, taxes, or duties to pay when it arrives. We take care of everything involved in shipping -- all you have to do unpackage the instrument when it arrives and play!
Questions? Email us anytime, or call us toll-free at 1-855-772-0424.