Picked Up a L-5 for $75

qcvol · Posted: Fri Apr 27, 2007 4:01 am Post subject: Picked Up a L-5 for $75

I picked up an old Gibson L-5 today so I've been online doing some research on serial numbers and etc. It's had most of the finish sanded off, however, there's no cracks, breaks or dents and is rock solid. The neck is from a Gibson post war acoustic based on the gold stenciled block logo and other info I found. The serial number inked inside the body indicates it was built in 1928. The case is a greenish alligator case from the 40s. Now I have a far fetched question but is it possible to find a period neck?

Thanks,
Mark

SAguitar · Posted: Fri Apr 27, 2007 10:29 am Post subject:

Sure, it's possible! Is it easy? NO! Is it reasonably priced? NO!

But with that said, you did score a valuable piece of history for a great price.

I would suggest you contact some of the players in Vintage Guitar magazine. Those cats have the inside scoop on that kind of stuff. Cool

HollyPea · Hamster Joined: 19 Mar 2007 Posts: 88 Location: Mid west

Hi qcvol and Stan,

You know, I just looked at some of these "L' models and they look very much like my dad's. He bought in 1938 or there about. It has a SINGLE DIAMOND trapieze tailpiece with SINGLE MOP position markers. But it is a (or was) a really nice Sunburst finish. He paid 65.oo new. I don't know the exact model or serial number and I've got to find out. It was a bueat of a guitar. My mom still has it. Anyway, where can I get more info on pre-war Gibson's? If you think you might have an idea as to the model, I'd love to know. Of course pictures are always best for me, I'm still learning this kind of stuff, Confused

It was discontinued soom after he purchased it and we never knew why. Perhaps to put more selling drive into another model at the time??

Have a great weekend !

Holly

HollyPea · Hamster Joined: 19 Mar 2007 Posts: 88 Location: Mid west

Hey qcvol ...
I forgot to mention, his headstock was the same gold logo. Under that, the Gibson is inlaid MOP. His guitar ws stripped down and redone by this man in Massachusetts Ernie P. Brian, who used to refinish violins and other instruments for people from all over the country. He's long been dead now. My dad just didn't have the money to send it to Gibson for real repairs. Was/is this something that was done at that time, inlaid headstock logo? I wonder if it still holds true. Let me get some sandpaper and check out my '47 J-45's stock Laughing

Holly

bosrocker51 · Tadpole Joined: 09 Apr 2008 Posts: 22

your post didn't say why you want to replace the neck, is it because the finish was sanded off? I'd send it to RS Guitarworks in Kentucky. They do amazing work. Just be SURE you are absolutely specific about what you won on the work order. Subsequent requests by phone or email will not be followed. Best.

Mark
bosrocker51