The Gibson L-7 model was a well constructed professional grade budget friendly archtop guitar. It went through many changes from its introduction in 1933 until its retirement in the early 1970s. The L-7 had a fair amount of fancy adornments for a budget model such as a script pearl inlay, multiple layers of binding and a 17″ wide body (after 1935). The 1947 edition of the L-7  featured new closed back Kluson Keystone type tuners as well as the old style thick script logo. The attractively figured Maple back and sides are wonderfully understated by the dark brown finish.

This 1947 Gibson L-7 has been lightly played and maintained throughout its years and is ready to begin a new life with a new owner. The finish is nicely checked throughout but is original and unmolested. The neck retains its original frets in good playable condition. The top and bracing don’t exhibit any of the problems of sinkage or distortion that some old archtop guitars are prone to do. All parts are original to the guitar except for the pickguard, tuners and strings. The pickguard was replaced with a correct style with attractive binding. 5 of the 6 original tuners are included with the guitar and are in good condition. A previous owner installed a DeArmond pickup that included a jack hole on the rim and two tiny holes on the side of the neck just below where it meets the body. The original pickup in working condition is included in the sale. The top has two cracks that have been glued tightly are are stable.

The bark and punch that made these Gibson archtops famous is still very much alive in this one. The 1 11/16″ nut width and immediate post war neck carve and girth is comfortable in the hand. This guitar needs nothing in order to perform as necessary for years to come.