Taylor LKSM Leo Kottke 12-String - USA 1995

Here is a 1995 Taylor LKSM 12-string, a signature model developed in collaboration between Leo Kottke and Bob Taylor, widely regarded as one of the most distinctive and refined American 12-strings ever produced. Built for low-tuning performance, it delivers an expansive, orchestral sound with deep resonance and remarkable clarity.

This example features a large 17-inch body design paired with carefully voiced tonewoods that are optimised for low tuning (down to C#), producing enormous low-end depth, rich overtones, and a wide, immersive soundscape. It retains excellent definition across the register, making it ideal for complex fingerstyle work and harmonic layering.

This example features a premium build specification designed specifically for tonal stability under reduced tuning tension, along with a Leo Kottke–signed Taylor “Paper Signature Series” label inside the instrument. It is structurally reinforced with an internal bridge plate system that enhances durability and long-term stability.

Playability remains excellent, with a comfortable neck profile and responsive setup that allows for both specialised low-tuning use and adaptation to standard tuning with lighter strings if desired. The guitar feels solid, balanced, and highly expressive under the fingers.

Condition is outstanding for its age, showing extremely light fret wear and only minimal cosmetic signs of use across its nearly 30-year lifespan. The body is exceptionally clean, with structural integrity fully intact. The pickguard shows slight lifting near the soundhole, but this is minor and does not affect performance.

Specifications:

Year: 1995
Country: USA
Model: Taylor LKSM Leo Kottke
Finish: Gloss
Body: Sitka spruce top, tropical mahogany back and sides
Neck: Tropical mahogany, C profile, dovetail-style set neck
Fingerboard: Ebony
Scale: 25.5"
Bridge: Ebony
Tuners: Mini Grover gold
Case: Original hard shell case (OHSC)