Vintage 1948 Gibson ES-150 archtop guitar

John Shults

Posted on June 19 2020

Vintage 1948 Gibson ES-150 archtop guitar

 

This vintage 1948 Gibson ES-150 archtop electric guitar came through the shop a few years ago. I'm always a vintage Gibson guitar buyer but I especially love the large archtop Gibson guitars. Please contact me here to sell a vintage Gibson guitar

The Gibson ES-150 was introduced in 1936 as Gibson's mid-grade electric archtop guitar. The 16 1/4" wide body and single coil pickup made it a near perfect instrument for the Jazz and big band ensembles of the day. After a short break during WWII, the ES-150 received a slightly larger 17" wide body and a new, now iconic pickup: the P-90. The 150 stayed in production throughout the early 1950s and was discontinued when styles changed in 1956. The 150's carved Spruce top and flame Maple back and sides are a perfect combination for warm single note runs and subtle, songwriter rhythm.

This 1948 Gibson ES-150 has survived in wonderful original condition and comes to you on consignment from the wife of the original owner. She says that her husband bought the guitar new and played country style on it in the 1950s. It went back in its original case and into the closet for many years. Now it's back and ready to go in the collection, the stage or the studio. Repairs include a very light fretboard cleanup and a proper P-90 rewind by Lindy Fralin. All other parts are original to the guitar including the often crumbling tuner buttons. It's setup with a fresh set of flat wound strings for that vintage feel.

The original owner's wife has finally decided to let go of her husband's 1948 Gibson ES-150. It is previously uncirculated as evidenced by its clean condition. It's setup perfectly with a straight neck and proper playing action. The old P-90 is warm with plenty of output and the flatwound strings round off the shrill highs for that vintage sound. Call the number at the top of the page or use the contact form on the right to speak with me directly about this 1948 Gibson ES-150 with the original case offered from the original owner.

Gibson archtop electric guitar vintage 1948 ES-150

Gibson ES-150 archtop electric guitar vintage 1948

Gibson ES-150 headstock, open back Kluson tuners

1948 Gibson ES-150 guitar original Lifton hard shell case

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