(Est) 1945 Gibson Banner J-45 in fantastic original condition. No FON, which alone suggests to me a 1945 build year.

Spruce top, mahogany back and sides, 1 piece mahogany neck with truss rod. Original everything except nut, saddle, and frets. Original bridge plate in great condition.

Nut width: 1.78”

1st fret: .94”

9th fret: 1.00”

Pro neck set and refret. No top cracks, no neck cracks, no heel or end block cracks. Small crack on upper/middle part of the back which doesn’t show any evidence being through to the inside. What I thought was another small crack on the bottom treble side back also does not appear to be as such upon close inspection. Mis-matched metal gears on the tuners that I have no reason to believe aren’t original. Heavy finish checking throughout with finish flaking on the neck that doesn’t diminish the feel or playability in any way (in fact, quite unnoticeable in the hand).

Spruce top Banner J-45’s are hard to find and only getting harder, especially ones in as good condition as this one. I am of the opinion war-time and pre-war acoustics are undervalued but I do not believe I’ll be in the minority for much longer. This is a fantastic player with excellent tone and a neck size that isn’t so oppressively gigantic like the multi-piece necks from earlier in the run, and I very much love having it and using it regularly. It’s an inspiring guitar that records beautifully and is sure to please any discerning aficionado or player who enjoys the sound only 80+ year old acoustics can produce.

Additional photos available upon request. Any particulars or questions that aren’t answered here, feel free to ask.