SOLD - Vintage Gibson L-5 - USA 1939

Here is a highly significant 1939 Gibson L-5, one of the most iconic and important archtop guitars from Gibson’s golden era. First introduced in 1922, the L-5 became Gibson’s flagship archtop, known for its carved construction, refined tonal balance, and exceptional craftsmanship. By 1939, it was fully established as a professional standard, representing some of the finest acoustic instrument building of the period.

This example features a carved spruce top with maple back and sides, along with period-correct parallel bracing introduced in 1939 to support the top’s response and projection. It also includes the desirable natural/blonde finish option from the same year, a rare variation with only a small percentage of L-5s produced in this finish, making it particularly collectible.

This guitar remains largely original aside from a replacement pickguard, retaining its authentic vintage character. It shows light wear consistent with age, including minor marks and small nicks, along with a professional side repair where a D’Armond pickup was previously installed, now restored and structurally stable while maintaining full acoustic integrity.

Tonally, it delivers a rich, balanced archtop voice with a clear, singing treble, focused midrange, and warm, controlled low end. It is highly responsive and dynamic, with excellent projection and clarity in both solo and ensemble contexts.

It comes complete with its original Lifton hard case with orange racing stripes, along with the original raincoat-style case cover. A rare and highly collectible pre-war Gibson L-5 that combines history, tone, and craftsmanship in one exceptional instrument.

Specifications: 

Year: 1939
Country: USA
Model: L-5
Finish: Material: Nitrocellulose Lacquer
Neck: Maple / Ebony
Fingerboard: Maple / Ebony
Scale: 25.5"
Bridge: Original Brazilian Rosewood
Tuners: Original Klusons
Case: OHSC with original ‘raincoat’