Gibson J45 Banner Hogtop Sunburst 1944

This exceptionally beautiful 'Hogtop' Gibson J45 from 1944 is an absolute dream guitar for the vintage instrument enthusiast. With its mahogany top and warm tone, this is a special piece of American guitar history featuring the timeless "dry" sound that early J45s are known for.

The guitar is a perfect representative of Gibson's 'Banner' era. The headstock with the text 'Only a Gibson is Good Enough' is a distinctive feature of this model, leaving no doubt about how Gibson felt about its guitars!

The guitar produces that unmistakable, dry, and woody sound that only a well-played vintage J45 can deliver. The bass is rich and full, yet remains defined, while the treble sounds clear but never shrill. The scalloped X-bracing ensures beautiful responsiveness, and the guitar reacts instantly to every nuance of your touch.

The thick C-shaped neck profile is typical of this period and offers a solid grip while playing, providing an authentic vintage feel that cannot be compared to modern replicas. The rosewood fingerboard with pearl dot inlays underscores the no-nonsense look of this workhorse, while the original Kluson tuning machines complete the picture.

Naturally, the guitar has undergone some maintenance over the years to remain in this beautiful condition. For instance, the bridge and bridge plate have been replaced, and part of the X-bracing on the inside of the soundbox has been re-glued. The guitar also had a refret at one point, and the nut has been raised. On the top next to the fingerboard, the lacquer has been touched up in a small area, but otherwise, the original lacquer on the entire guitar shines like never before!

Consignment.